Hearing Amplification Devices Can Help Individuals at All Levels of Hearing

Whether your hearing is normal or has some deficiencies, Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) – along with other hearing amplification devices can help you communicate more efficiently.

ALDs work by separating important sounds (e.g. human speech) from background noise, bringing these essential sounds directly to the ear and improving what is known as the “speech to noise ratio.” This is especially important in noisy environments, or if one has hearing loss, since a higher speech to noise ratio makes the spoken word much easier to hear.

What are ALDs?

Historically, ALDs consist of a microphone and a receiving device (can be a standalone device, a hearing aid, or a cochlear implant) that is capable of taking a transmitted signal and translating it into sound. The three main transmission system types used by these hearing amplification devices are:

• Infrared: Based on light wave technology (which makes them ideal for private matters, as light cannot pass through walls).
• FM: Utilize radio wave technology to transmit amplified sounds to individual receivers that are worn on the body. Can also be transmitted directly into a hearing aid and cochlear implant.
• Induction Loop: Makes use of electromagnetic technology to transmit a signal to a receiver.

Recently, ALDs have expanded to include television and telephone devices that can benefit anyone using these systems.

Why are ALDs especially helpful for people with hearing aids and cochlear implants?

ALDs are especially helpful for people who may need a little boost in certain situations (e.g. noisy restaurants, watching TV). They are also helpful for someone with hearing loss and requires the use of hearing assistance devices such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant.

ALDs and other hearing amplification devices almost act like a magnifying glass for sound. ALDs increase the volume of the sound delivered directly to the ear without amplifying all of the ambient environmental noise and therefore reduce the effort of communicating.

In addition to offering a full range of ALDs, Designer Audiology also fully service them. The ALD services we provide include, but are not limited to:

• Fitting: Measuring the output of the selected ALD with the person’s needs assessment for optimal outcomes.
• Counseling: An in-depth appointment for the user and family/care members on the care, maintenance, and use of the device.

To learn how an ALD can help you or a loved one more fully enjoy the sounds of life, see the products available in the Online Store, or call Designer Audiology today at 301-854-1410.