Assistive listening devices (ALDs) help to improve the quality of life for people who are hearing-impaired. The devices are available in an array of options, and can amplify sound when you’re at home, work, school or in any environment where you need additional help to filter out background noise and enhance hearing. Here, the professionals at Solbrig Hearing Center in Kerville, TX, explain the basics of these important devices and how they can assist you.

What Are Assistive Listening Devices?

Sometimes, hearing aids alone don’t provide enough amplification. In a noisy restaurant, classroom or auditorium where sound quality is poor, it can be difficult for someone with hearing loss to make out important sounds and conversations. Assistive listening devices increase the decibel level to a volume that gives the hearing impaired the ability to hear clearly. The devices can be used with or without a hearing aid to increase amplification.

The types of ALDs currently available are varied, and each device offers different benefits to aid hearing. Of those on the market, some of the most frequently purchased include FM systems, which are wireless receiver and transmitter systems that allow you to hear sound from distances up to 150 feet. Personal amplifiers are another popular type of ALDs consisting of a microphone that can be attached to the speaker’s clothing and a listening cord you can plug in to the amplifier to hear.

What ALDs are Available for Home Environments?

Most hearing aids now have wireless options that can be connected to a Bluetooth or similar headset accessory, making controlling the volume on the TV and other electronics easier.  Amplified telephones and alarm clocks provide additional features such as volume increases of up to 30 decibels to make them more functional for the hearing impaired.

When you’re adjusting to hearing loss, it’s beneficial to utilize assistive listening devices to support your needs. Contact the experts at Solbrig Hearing Center to learn more about these devices, and which ones would be most compatible with your lifestyle.  Call (830) 895-5900 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online for additional information about their products and services.