In a world filled with captivating sounds, the ability to hear is a precious gift. Yet, for millions of people, hearing loss poses unique challenges, limiting interactions, experiences and overall quality of life. Fortunately, remarkable technologies have revolutionised the field of hearing impairment aids. From cutting-edge hearing aids to innovative assistive devices, there is a wide range of devices available to help. Here we explore the world of aids for the hearing impaired.
People with reduced hearing ability face challenges in a variety of everyday scenarios, from making calls or answering telephones to recognising when someone may be calling at their door.
Fortunately, manufacturers have developed an array of useful hearing aids that help such people and those who care for them. They can range from simple aids to convenience, such as hearing aid compatible devices for televisions and computers to invaluable safety aids that provide emergency communications.
The following are broad categories of helpful aids for hearing impaired individuals:
Telephone ring amplifiers are electronic devices that sound a loud alert when they detect an incoming call. Many are powered by the phone system itself so require no extra batteries or cables. Look out for amplifiers that have additional alert features, such as a flashing light or a port that enables connection to a vibrating pillow pad. Ring amplifiers are often built into the next category of auditory aid: amplified telephone systems.
Amplified telephones are available in corded, cordless and mobile forms. These fully featured devices usually combine an amplified ringer with an in-built receiver amplifier that boosts the incoming sound very substantially. Useful features to consider include a hands-free function and compatibility with a hearing aid with a T-coil setting. Many such phones also double as an emergency call system that, when activated, will send a prerecorded message to a series of preprogrammed numbers in order to summon help.
Often wireless for ease of installation, doorbell amplifiers are electronic devices that sound a very loud alert when a visitor presses the doorbell. They may also come complete with a flashing light as an additional means of attracting attention. Wireless systems can often work with multiple alarm units, which can be placed in different parts of the home.
An induction loop system is a wireless device that transmits a signal directly to anyone within range who has a hearing aid with a T-coil setting. Such systems can be used with microphones to enable people to listen to a visiting speaker, or with a variety of home entertainment systems, including televisions, radios, music players and computers.
Extra loud alarm clocks are designed to ensure that the user never accidentally oversleeps. These alarm clocks invariably feature an extra loud alert tone or radio feature. In addition, many systems will also incorporate strobe lights and connections for vibrating pad accessories. For instance, Under Pillow Vibration Alarm Clocks that can be placed under a pillow or chair cushion.
There are some important considerations to remember when thinking about aids for hearing impaired individuals. They include:
At Complete Care Shop, we have a wide range of devices that can help bring some independence back to the lives of people living with hearing impairments. Whether it’s vibrating alarm clocks or high quality, high powered hearing aids, there is plenty of choice here.
If you need help deciding if a particular aid for hearing impaired people is right for you, you should consider getting in touch with our Expert Advice Service. For any other queries and support, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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