Harris Communications ALD Informational Article.

Hearing Loss Solutions

One solution to this problem is to use an Assistive Listening Device (ALD). An Assistive Listening Device (ALD) is a general term for a device—such as an amplified telephone, infrared system, FM system, personal amplification system, or loud clock—that helps you when you have a hearing loss. An ALD may be used if you don't have a hearing aid or if the hearing aid isn't enough.

Amplifiers and Amplified Telephones

A very common ALD is an amplified telephone. An amplified telephone has many of the same features as a standard telephone. The big difference is there are adjustments for tone as well as volume. Amplified telephones are available in a decibel range of 18–50dB and in a wide variety of styles, including corded and cordless telephones. Major manufacturers such as Clarity®, Williams Sound®, and Ultratec® all have amplified telephones that are readily available from many distributors. Click here to compare amplified phones.

If you want to keep your present phone but need additional amplification, an in-line amplifier may be the best product for you. It easily attaches to any phone via the handset jack. They are small, and can be carried with you to phones used outside the home. They provide the amplification needed and are a less-expensive alternative to buying a new phone. Click here to browse available telephone amplifiers.

TV Listeners

When a family member has a hearing loss, setting a TV volume that is comfortable for everyone can be a problem. If the sound from the TV is turned up to accommodate a hard-of-hearing person, it often will be too loud for the hearing person. A TV listening system is a solution to this problem. These infrared devices consist of a transmitter that is plugged into your TV set and a headset that can be adjusted to the hearing level needed. With a volume controller on the headset, the hard-of-hearing person can adjust the volume as needed without disrupting the rest of the family. The TV listening device may be used by anyone. With the sound being controlled on the headset, the TV will not disrupt other members of the family who are sleeping or do not want to hear the TV. Click here to compare TV listening systems.

Loud Alarm Clocks

Another device for the home is an alarm clock with a loud alarm or bedshaker. The loud alarm can achieve sound levels up to 98dB and will wake the heaviest of sleepers. Or, connect a bedshaker to the alarm clock. The bedshaker is put under the pillow or mattress and vibrates or "shakes" to wake you up. Many clocks will also connect to a lamp that will flash when the alarm goes off. Loud alarm clocks will awaken even the heaviest of sleepers. Click here to compare alarm clocks.

Personal Amplifiers

An ALD that can be used at home or brought with you is a personal amplifier. One commonly used is the Pocketalker from Williams Sound. It is a personal amplification device that is useful for one-on-one conversations. The transmitter is about the size of a deck of cards. It picks up sounds through a microphone which is then transmitted to a headset. The Pocketalker can be used by those with or without hearing aids. (For those with a t-coil in their hearing aid, sound can transfer to a t-coil coupler instead of a headset.)

If you are meeting in a small group or gathering, there are many Infrared and FM systems available that will ensure that everyone hears what is going on. With the advent of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), you have the right to ask for products to assist your hearing at all public places. A receiver should be provided that will give you the amplification necessary to hear every word. Click here for other personal assistive devices.

What to do if you have a hearing loss

If you think you have a hearing loss, get an exam from a qualified audiologist. Find out your range of hearing loss and what frequencies you are losing. If you decide to wear hearing aids, find out if you will have a t-coil. There are some ALDs that are designed for those who have hearing aids with t-coils. Try out some of the ALDs available and find out what works for you. You'll be amazed at what you have been missing.