Do you sometimes feel as though you’re missing out on conversations because it’s just too noisy around you? Or are you straining to hear someone talking, even when you crank up the volume on your hearing aid? If so, an assistive listening device (ALD) may be what you need.
While ALDs can be a game-changer for people with hearing loss, with so many options it can be overwhelming to choose one that’s right for you. At Sharp Hearing Care Professionals, Kevin Sharim and our team are dedicated to helping you choose the ideal device to suit your specific needs and lifestyle.
From enhancing face-to-face conversations to improving your phone calls and entertainment experiences, an assistive listening device can make a significant difference in your life. Let’s learn more about your options and how they work to help you hear more clearly.
If you struggle to hear in certain environments or situations, you’re in good company. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, an estimated 37.5 million American adults report challenges when it comes to hearing.
ALDs are electronic devices that improve your hearing by making sounds louder and clearer and by reducing background noise. They can be a standalone solution or used in conjunction with hearing aids depending on your level of hearing loss.
Several types of devices are available, each with its own features and benefits. Here’s a closer look at how the main technologies work.
Induction loop ALDs use a wire loop, installed in a room or area, to transmit sound directly to a wearable receiver or to your hearing aid. You can often find induction loop ALD systems in large spaces like theaters, churches, and airports.
Frequency modulated (FM) systems transmit sound from a microphone to a receiver — either your hearing aid or a separate device — using a specific radio frequency. Think of it like tuning into your own personal radio station.
An FM system is particularly effective in noisy environments, such as classrooms and restaurants, as it bypasses the background noise and delivers clear sound directly to your ears.
Infrared ALDs use light waves to transmit sound, similar to how a remote control works. The system converts the sounds around you into light waves, which your receiver intercepts and turns back into sound. While this type of ALD is ideal for home TVs or movie theaters, it can’t penetrate walls or be used outdoors.
Personal amplifiers are small, handheld devices that amplify sound while reducing background noise. This type of ALD works best for one-on-one conversations or in smaller spaces where other systems may be unavailable or incompatible.
Amplified phones allow you to boost the volume of your phone calls as necessary, so you never miss a detail during important conversations. A captioned phone uses voice-to-text technology to display the conversation on the screen in real time, making it easier to follow along.
A hearing evaluation can help set you on the path toward better hearing. When you’re trying to decide which type of device is the ideal fit, our team can talk you through your options, and it’s also important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Try asking yourself the following questions:
The answers can help you narrow down your choices, empowering you to choose the assistive listening device that best suits your situation. To learn more about your options, contact Sharp Hearing Care Professionals to make an appointment today.
