Improving communication using assistive listening devices or loop systems could benefit people who have dual sensory loss providing increased amplification and clarity.

Listening to the television or audio equipment can also be improved with the use of other types of assistive listening devices depending on the type and level of hearing loss.

Personal Listening Devices

People who are hard of hearing may benefit from a personal listening device (or personal amplifier) to improve communication in one-to-one conversations.  For some people with mild hearing loss a personal listening device could be an alternative to hearing aids, depending on the type and level of hearing loss.

For a person who wears hearing aids a personal amplifier used with a neck-loop could provide similar benefits with the Telecoil (“T” Switch) switched on. However, not all hearing aids are fitted with Telecoil. Digital hearing aids would need to be programmed to use Telecoil.

Seek professional advice from your Audiologist if using as an alternative to hearing aids.

Bellman Audio Maxi

• Background noise reduced
• Clarity of speech amplified
• Use with earphones or neckloop
• Can also be connected to the television via a Cable Kit (available separately)

FM Listening Systems

An FM System is wireless, using radio transmission to transfer sound directly from a microphone in the transmitter to a receiver worn on a hearing aid. FM Systems have improved sound quality with reduction in background noise. Receivers are available to work in a similar way for use with bone-anchored hearing aids and cochlear implants.

Inspiro Dynamic FM Transmitter

• Auto-tuning into FM channel
• Operates within 15 metres range (indoors)
• Can be used with DynaMic MultiTalker Network in meetings, classrooms, etc.

Image courtesy of Word of Mouth Technology www.wom.com.au

Listening to the Television & Other Audio Equipment

Loop systems, wireless or infrared headphones increase clarity and amplification when listening to the television, radio or other audio equipment. Suitability will depend on the individual’s type and level of hearing loss.

Wireless and infrared devices are portable, reducing the risk of falls on trailing cables. Good quality headphones are also available from a number of major electrical retailers.

Features to look for are amplication capabilities, listening range and ease of use of controls. Wireless systems will reduce accidents.

Sennheiser RS180 Wireless Headphones

• Portable digital wireless headphones with frequency range of 100m
• Transmitter connects to television or other audio equipment
• Headphones rechargeable on docking station
• Adjustable left and right volume controls on headphone

Image courtesy of Word of Mouth Technology www.wom.com.au

Sennheiser Set 900 Stereo Listening System

• Infrared listening system
• Wireless headphones with listening range of 12m
• Three listening system with option to use for one-to-one communication
• Volume control on receiver for balancing and adjusting volume for left and right ear

Image courtesy of Printacall www.printacall.com.au