The Power of Assistive Listening Devices

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Dr. Marcus Kolmetz was born and raised in Bay County. He graduated from Auburn University in 1997 with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders. He then completed his Masters degree in Audiology from the University of Tennessee in 2000 and his Doctor of Audiology from A.T. Still University in 2007. Dr. Kolmetz returned to Panama City in 2001 as a staff audiologist with Audiology Consultants, then Audiologic Consultants. He is a member of American Speech and Hearing Association, Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology and Board Certified Audiologist.

Latest posts by Dr. Marcus Kolmetz (see all)

The Power of Assistive Listening Devices - May 8, 2024
Up in Smoke: Exploring the Hidden Risks of Tobacco Use on Hearing Health - April 10, 2024
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In a world filled with all sorts of sounds, individuals with hearing loss often face unique challenges when it comes to communication. However, thanks to advancements in technology, communication barriers are being broken down. Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) are changing the game for those with hearing loss. From amplified telephones to FM systems and alerting devices, assistive listening devices can enhance your hearing abilities.

FM Systems: Clear Communication in Any Environment

FM systems consist of two parts: a transmitter and a receiver.

Transmitter: This small microphone picks up the speaker’s voice or audio source.
Receiver: This is worn by the listener. It can be a standalone device or be integrated into hearing aids.

FM systems are particularly beneficial in noisy or challenging listening environments, such as classrooms, meetings, or lecture halls, where background noise can interfere with communication. By delivering sound directly to the listener’s ears, FM systems improve speech intelligibility and better comprehension.

Amplified Telephones: Clearer Conversations at Your Fingertips

Amplified telephones are specially designed phones that amplify incoming sounds, making it easier for individuals with hearing loss to hear and understand phone conversations. These phones feature adjustable volume controls, tone adjustments, and amplification settings to accommodate varying degrees of hearing loss.

Some amplified telephones also include features such as visual indicators, large buttons, and captioning displays to enhance usability for individuals with hearing loss. Whether used at home or in the workplace, amplified telephones enable individuals with hearing loss to communicate more effectively over the phone, maintaining connections with loved ones, colleagues, and service providers.

Hearing Loops: Seamless Sound Accessibility Everywhere

Hearing loops, also known as audio induction loops, are assistive listening systems that transmit audio signals directly to hearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with telecoil (T-coil) technology. These systems consist of a loop of wire installed around a room or venue, connected to a sound source such as a microphone or PA system.

When individuals with compatible hearing devices enter the looped area, they can switch to the T-coil mode on their devices to receive clear and amplified audio without background noise or distortion. Hearing loops are commonly installed in theaters, concert halls, churches, and public spaces, providing seamless sound accessibility for individuals with hearing loss and promoting inclusivity in public environments.

Alerting Devices: Enhancing Safety and Awareness

Alerting devices are assistive listening devices designed to alert individuals with hearing loss to important sounds or events in their environment. These devices use visual, tactile, or auditory cues to signal alarms, notifications, or alerts. Alerting devices make sure individuals with hearing loss are aware of potential dangers or emergencies.

Common types of alerting devices include flashing lights, vibrating alarms, and bed shakers, which can be integrated into smoke detectors, doorbells, alarm clocks, and other household appliances. By providing timely and accessible alerts, these devices enhance safety, independence, and peace of mind for individuals with hearing loss.

Personal Sound Amplifiers: Portable Amplification on the Go

Personal sound amplifiers are lightweight and portable devices designed to amplify sound for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices typically consist of a microphone, amplifier, and earpiece, allowing users to customize amplification levels and adjust settings to suit their hearing preferences.

Personal sound amplifiers are ideal for situations where traditional hearing aids may not be necessary or practical, such as one-on-one conversations, lectures, or recreational activities. While personal sound amplifiers are not a substitute for hearing aids, they can provide temporary relief and enhanced auditory accessibility in various listening environments.

Captioning Devices: Enhancing Access to Audiovisual Content

Captioning devices are assistive listening devices that display text captions alongside audiovisual content, making them accessible to individuals with hearing loss or auditory processing difficulties. These devices can be integrated into televisions, movie theaters, or streaming services to provide real-time captions.

Captioning devices are available in various formats, including open captions, closed captions, and subtitles, allowing users to customize the viewing experience to their preferences. By providing visual text cues alongside audio content, captioning devices enhance accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with hearing loss.

Explore ALDs

Assistive listening devices can enhance hearing and accessibility. We offer a range of ALDs to suit your lifestyle and hearing needs. Visit us today to find out how ALDs can help you hear.