assistive hearing devices

Assistive Hearing Devices

Amplifying Noise For Patients With Hearing Loss

People with hearing loss may have trouble following a conversation amid considerable background noise, such as a teacher in a classroom setting, a presenter at a conference, or an actor in a play. Fortunately, technology has given us assistive hearing devices that can be used to amplify sounds—such as voices—and bring that sound directly into the receiver’s ear. These devices include hearing aids, FM systems, and personal amplifiers, which can dramatically improve sound clarity and reduce distractions. With the right device, individuals can better engage in conversations and participate more fully in various social and professional environments.

What Are Assistive Hearing Devices?

Often confused for hearing aids, assistive hearing devices are also called assistive listening devices (ALDs). Like hearing aids, there are several different types of ALDs available. These devices amplify noise in ways that can be particularly beneficial in certain situations when hearing aids can only be so helpful. The devices use systems—either an FM, infrared, inductive loop, or Bluetooth system—to amplify sound in the following ways: by improving clarity in noisy environments, providing direct sound delivery to the user’s ears, and reducing background distractions. ALDs can be particularly useful in settings like lectures, theaters, or places with considerable noise where traditional hearing aids may not provide sufficient assistance. The devices can amplify sound in the following ways:

  • Reducing background noise

  • Reducing the effect that spatial distance between the speaker and listener has on sound

  • Eliminating echoes and other distracting noises

Who Can Benefit From Assistive Hearing Devices?

Patients with different degrees of hearing loss can use ALDs, including patients with cochlear implants. They are commonly used in addition to hearing aids and cochlear implants in specific environments, and are difficult for people with hearing loss. However, people can benefit from at-home use of these devices as well.

Types Of Assistive Hearing Devices

All ALDs consist of a microphone that the speaker wears, a device that attaches to the listener and a method of transmission. As the speaker talks, the listener clearly and comfortably hears the speaker’s voice right in their ear.

This small, box-shaped device is best used in small groups and one-on-one conversations. Though an affordable and reliable option for everyday use, personal amplifiers are less effective in situations in which the speaker is far away from the receiver.

This system uses sound waves to wirelessly transmit noises, much like a radio. Portable personal FM systems enable the recipient to comfortably hear the speaker’s voice from within 50 feet of the speaker. Additionally, there are sound field FM systems that allow multiple people to hear more clearly without attaching an additional device to their hearing aid or cochlear implant.

This system uses light waves to transmit sound and can only be used indoors. Because light technology cannot bypass walls, infrared systems are a good option for environments that prioritize privacy and security, such as a courtroom or entertainment venues.

Sound is transmitted through an electromagnetic field, allowing multiple users to benefit from the inductive loop, also called a hearing loop, without having to wear any kind of device other than their hearing aid. Additionally, people without hearing loss are able to join with headphones. Hearing loops are commonly used in venues with poor acoustics, such as churches, or in places where background noise may be prevalent.

Bluetooth systems use Wi-Fi to bring amplified sound to patients with Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid devices. Smartphone and other Bluetooth users without hearing loss can also benefit from this system.