Which Assistive Technology for Hearing Impaired Device Do I Need?
Living with impaired hearing creates daily challenges. Unfortunately, these are challenges that those with hearing overlook, neglect, or do not consider. Communication issues are the most obvious. For the hard of hearing, overcoming background noise is a big issue. The focus on lip reading increases. In addition, minor problems like hearing a toaster pop or a doorbell chime create unexpected obstacles.
Fortunately, as assistive technology for hearing impaired improves, there are more device options than ever before.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are the most common assistive technology and the most well-known. However, they have also gotten much more sophisticated in the digital age, becoming effective Bluetooth links to other devices and assisting with any level of hearing impairment.
Hearing Loops
Hearing loops use a sound source, such as the speaker system in public venues such as theatres or churches but it can also be used at home together with the television or smartphone, an amplifier, wires to spread the sound for wireless pickup, and a receiver, which can be a hearing aid or an adequately tuned headset. These devices tend to be commonly used in public spaces, but their use is expanding as the technology becomes more affordable and readily available.
Wireless Systems
Wireless options that use FM or infrared systems increase access to hearing loop technology and make it more widely available for the hearing impaired. Placing wires all over the home can be complicated and involved, plus there is the risk of signals or wires crossing. Wireless options reduce such risks, set up costs, and improve availability.
Other Communication Assists
Standard technologies, such as keyboards and touch screens, can assist with communication. A reliance on text communications over voice might be inconvenient in certain situations; it can also prove incredibly useful. As hearing assistive technology improves, the links between voice and text have grown better connected and influential.
Alert Devices
Alert devices, such as smoke alarms or timers with light and vibration options, are increasingly available. In addition, it's becoming more common for alarm systems to incorporate light and vibrations in their systems to improve the likelihood of notice, creating a safer environment and providing better assistive technology for individuals with hearing loss.
Better assistive technologies for the hearing impaired make for safer conditions and better inclusion at home, out and about, and at work. Depending on the severity of the hearing loss, the odds are good that in the digital age, options help that person interact with the broader world more efficiently than ever before.
Bellman & Symfon
Are you dealing with hearing loss? Bellman & Symfon have a broad range of devices that can help you. Assistive hearing devices, alert devices, safety devices, and alarm clocks are all available to meet your needs. Contact us at 910-239-5796 and see what we can do for you.