Check out these bells and whistles in a new phone that can make calls easier to hear.
To our readers: While the term “hearing impaired” is not a preferred reference in the hearing loss community or our company culture, you will find a few mentions in this article to help those using it in their online search access this information. We assure you that our limited usage in this piece does not reflect our values, views, or conduct. Respectfully, The CapTel Team
A phone for the hearing impaired, or people with hearing loss as we prefer to use, can provide customizable features that enhance phone conversations and make it easier for you to stay connected with family and friends. Here are some top features to look for:
- Captioning services
- Built-in amplifier
- Answering machine
- Built-in Phonebook
- Hearing aid compatibility
- Customizable display and audio settings
Learn more about each of these features to look for in a hearing loss-friendly telephone below.
Captioning services
If you want a phone with the added benefit of written captions of your conversation, look for a captioned telephone. CapTel has four different models that make it easy to find a phone that fits your unique situation and preferences.
Discover more about these four models and how to choose the right captioned telephone for you on our blog.
Built-in amplifier
Many phones for the hearing impaired, or people with hearing loss, include amplification and tone control so you can adjust for both the volume and high- or low-frequency sounds. This feature will help to maximize the quality of the sound over the phone by customizing sound frequencies based on your personal audiogram.
Answering machine
If you find yourself away from your home, a built-in answering machine is another feature to look for in a phone for hearing loss. With this desirable feature in your new phone, you won’t miss an important message when you are on-the-go.
Built-in Phonebook
Another helpful feature to look for in a phone for the hearing impaired, or people with hearing loss, is a built-in phonebook. Some have this capability that allows you to store and save over 100 names and phone numbers to your device so you can have quick access to those you call the most.
Hearing aid compatibility
If you use hearing aids, you may want to look for a phone with Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) included. These phones will have an induction loop in the handset that can connect to a hearing aid when you turn it to its T-coil (telecoil) setting. Once connected, the output from the phone transmits directly to your hearing aids. In this way, the amplification and volume come from your hearing aids, rather than the phone itself.
Customizable display and audio settings
The final feature you may want to look for in a phone for hearing loss is customizable display and audio settings. Adjustable font sizes, colors, captions, volume, and tone frequencies help to personalize a new phone so that it fits your specific needs.
These features to look for in a phone for the hearing impaired, or people with hearing loss, can help make it easier for you to stay in touch with family and friends. If you or someone you know could benefit from a CapTel captioned telephone, contact us online or call (800) 233-9130 for assistance.
