Find out more about your options for assistive listening devices.
Assistive listening devices (ALDs) are specialized technologies designed to improve hearing ability in a range of environments with or without the use of traditional hearing aids. There are various types of assistive listening devices that can capture sound and deliver it directly into the ear, significantly enhancing speech clarity and reducing background noise. They are particularly beneficial in public spaces where the acoustics may not be ideal or in situations where there is a considerable distance between the sound source and the listener.
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of assistive listening devices and where they’re most useful.
FM Systems
FM systems work by transmitting sound via radio signals. A speaker talks into a microphone connected to a transmitter, which then sends the signal to a receiver worn by the listener. These systems are highly versatile and can be used in various settings, including classrooms, conference rooms, museums, and outdoor venues. They are perfect for situations where mobility is necessary, allowing the listener to move freely without losing sound quality.
Infrared Systems
Infrared systems convert sound into light, sending it from a transmitter to a receiver that the listener wears. These systems are ideal for environments where the space is enclosed and movement is limited, such as movie theaters and courtrooms, because the signal cannot pass through walls. Additionally, infrared systems are commonly used in museums and galleries, allowing visitors to receive audio information about exhibits without background noise interference.
Induction Loop Systems
Induction loop systems, also known as hearing loops, create a magnetic field that transmits sound directly to hearing aids equipped with a telecoil (T-coil) feature. These systems are especially beneficial in fixed settings such as classrooms, theaters, places of worship, and public transportation terminals. The seamless delivery of sound directly to the hearing aid or cochlear implant provides a clear and immersive listening experience, making it easier for individuals to engage with the content being presented.
Personal Amplifiers
Personal amplifiers are portable devices designed for one-on-one or small group interactions. They consist of a microphone, an amplifier, and a receiver, helping to amplify the sound close to the listener while minimizing background noise. These devices are particularly useful in settings like dining at restaurants, attending small meetings, or any situation where direct communication is essential.
Captioned Telephones
Captioned telephones display live captions of what a caller says, enabling people with hearing loss to participate in phone conversations with confidence. Captioned telephones can be used in homes, offices, or anytime you need to connect using the telephone. All models of CapTel captioned telephones are hearing aid compatible, but they are also great for non-hearing aid wearers too! A CapTel captioned telephone is an ideal assistive device when you need clarity and accuracy over the phone.
With so many types of assistive listening devices, selecting the appropriate ALD depends on several factors, including your specific hearing needs, the environment in which the device will be used, and the type of hearing aid or other devices that you currently use. If you have any questions on how each of these individual devices work or have questions about your current hearing aid capabilities, reach out to your audiologist.
