What is a cyborg? You probably imagine a half human, half machine when you think of a cyborg, especially if you love science fiction movies (the human condition is often cleverly depicted with these characters). Hollywood cyborgs can seem extremely outlandish.
But in reality, somebody wearing something as simple as a pair of glasses could be considered a cyborg. After all, biology has been enhanced with technology.
These technologies usually add to the human condition. So you’re actually the coolest type of cyborg in the world if you’re using an assistive listening device. And the best thing is that the technology doesn’t end there.
Hearing loss drawbacks
Hearing loss certainly comes with some drawbacks.
When you go to see a movie, it can be difficult to keep up with the plot. Understanding your grandchildren is even more difficult (some of that is due to the age-gap, but for the most part, it’s hearing loss). And this can affect your life in very profound (often negative) ways.
The world can become very quiet if your hearing loss is disregarded. This is where technology comes in.
How can technology help with hearing loss?
Generally speaking, technology that helps you have better hearing is lumped into the category of “assistive listening devices”. Ok, it does sound somewhat technical! The question might arise: exactly what are assistive listening devices? Where can I buy assistive listening devices? What challenges will I deal with?
These questions are all normal.
Usually, hearing aids are what we think of when we consider hearing aid technology. Because hearing aids are an essential part of dealing with hearing loss, that’s reasonable. But hearing aids aren’t the only type of assistive hearing device. And, used correctly, these hearing devices can help you more fully enjoy the world around you.
What types of assistive listening devices are there?
Induction loops
Induction loops, also known as hearing loops, use technology that sounds really complex. Here’s what you need to know: individuals who wear hearing aids can hear more clearly in locations with a hearing loop which are typically well marked with signage.
A speaker will sound more clear due to the magnetic fields in a hearing loop. Here are a few examples of when an induction loop can be beneficial:
- Lobbies, waiting rooms, and other noisy places.
- Places with inferior acoustic qualities like echoes.
- Presentations, movies, or other events that rely on amplification.
FM systems
An FM hearing assistance system works much like a radio or a walkie-talkie. In order for this system to work, you need two elements: a transmitter (normally a microphone or sound system) and a receiver (often in the form of a hearing aid). FM systems are great for:
- Courtrooms and other government or civil buildings.
- An event where amplified sound is being used, including music from a speaker or sound at a movie.
- Conferences, classrooms, and other educational activities.
- Whenever it’s hard to hear due to a loud environment.
Infrared systems
There are similarities between an infrared system and an FM system. It consists of a receiver and an amplifier. Typically, the receiver is worn around the neck with an IR system. Here are some instances where IR systems can be helpful:
- When you’re listening to one primary person talking.
- People with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
- Indoor settings. IR systems are often effected by strong sunlight. Consequently, inside settings are usually the best ones for this sort of technology.
Personal amplifiers
Personal amplifiers are like less specialized and less powerful versions of a hearing aid. They’re generally composed of a microphone and a speaker. The sound is being amplified through the speakers after being picked up by the microphone. Personal amplifiers may seem like a confusing option since they come in several styles and types.
- For best results, talk to us before using personal amplifiers of any type.
- You need to be careful, though, these devices can expedite the decline of your hearing, especially if you aren’t careful. (You’re essentially putting an extremely loud speaker right in your ear, after all.)
- These devices are good for individuals who have very mild hearing loss or only require amplification in specific situations.
Amplified phones
Hearing aids and phones often have trouble with each other. Sometimes you have feedback, sometimes things get a little garbled, sometimes you can’t have a hard time getting the volume quite right.
One solution for this is an amplified phone. Depending on the circumstance, these phones let you control the volume of the speaker. Here are some things that these devices are good for:
- Individuals who don’t have their phone synced to their Bluetooth hearing aid (or who don’t have Bluetooth available on either their hearing aids or their principal telephone).
- Families where the phone is used by several people.
- When somebody has trouble hearing phone conversations but hears okay in other circumstances.
Alerting devices
Often called signalers or notification devices, alerting devices utilize lights, vibration, or occasionally loud noises to get your attention when something occurs. When the microwave bings, the doorbell dings, or the phone rings, for instance. So when something around your workplace or home needs your consideration, even without your hearing aids, you’ll be conscious of it.
Alerting devices are a good solution for:
- When you take breaks from your hearing aids.
- Those with complete or nearly complete hearing loss.
- When in the office or at home.
- Situations where lack of attention could be hazardous (for instance, when a smoke alarm goes off).
Telecoils
So the connection (sometimes frustrating) between your hearing aid and phone becomes evident. The feedback that happens when two speakers are held in front of each other isn’t pleasant. When you hold a hearing aid close to a phone, the same thing happens.
A telecoil is a way to get around that connection. You will be able to hear all of your calls without feedback as your telecoil links your hearing aid directly to your phone. They’re good for:
- Individuals who talk on the phone frequently.
- People who have hearing aids.
- Anyone who isn’t connected to Bluetooth in any way.
Captioning
These days, it has become rather commonplace for people to utilize captions and subtitles to enjoy media. Everybody uses captions! Why? Because they make it a little easier to understand what you’re watching.
For people with hearing loss, captions will help them be able to understand what they’re watching even with noisy conversations around them and can work in tandem with their hearing aids so they can hear dialog even if it’s mumbled.
What are the benefits of using assistive listening devices?
So, now your greatest question may be: where can I buy assistive listening devices? This question implies a recognition of the benefits of these technologies for people who use hearing aids.
To be sure, not every strategy is right for every individual. If you have a cell phone with easy-to-use volume control, you may not need an amplifying phone, for instance. A telecoil may not even work for you if you don’t have the right type of hearing aid.
The point is that you have choices. After you start customizing your journey toward being an awesome cyborg, you will be ready to get the most out of your life. It’s time to get back into that conversation with your grandchildren.
Hearing Assistive Technology can help you hear better in some situations but not all. If you want to hear better, call us today!