What is an Assistive Listening Device?

ALDs, or Assistive Listening Devices, are personal technologies which help those with hearing loss, especially in situations and environments where hearing is difficult. Depending on the type of ALD, they may be used with or without hearing aids. It is important to note that while ALDs are not a substitute for hearing aids, they can provide extra help to those with hearing loss. There are many kinds of Assistive Listening Devices which help individuals with hearing loss. The most common types of Assistive Listening Devices are:

Telephone Amplifying Devices

For people with hearing loss, hearing and speaking on the phone can be challenging. Telephone Amplifying Devices are the most common type of ALDS. Amplified telephones have an extra loud ring as well as a speaker with adjustable volume to allow you to hear more clearly. Amplified telephones come in a wide variety of styles with a range of features. Many come with a screen with caller ID, larger buttons, and easy to adjust volume dials. Amplified telephones come in wired and cordless versions, suiting your personal needs and tastes. If you or a loved one would benefit from the use of an amplified telephone, take a look at the E814 Amplified Corded Phone with Answering Machine.

TV Listening Systems

Watching Television with hearing loss can be challenging. Some people put the volume up high to compensate for their hearing loss which is not ideal for a couple of reasons. Unless you have a set of high-quality speakers, the quality of the sound coming from the TV will likely be poor. More importantly, if you are watching television with other people, the volume might become uncomfortably loud for them to enjoy with you. Luckily, products such as the Sennheiser RS2000 Wireless TV Stetho-Headphones can help. These TV listening systems connect with your television to stream amplified audio so that you can enjoy your favourite TV programs and movies with friends and family without putting the volume too high. These headphones are made to be comfortable and include long-lasting batteries for your convenience.

Amplified Alarm Clocks

Most people with hearing aids do not wear them in bed. That means waking up can sometimes be a challenge for the hearing impaired. While some people can count on their cell phone, watch, or traditional bedside alarm to wake them up, others require more volume to get them up. Devices such as the SBB500ss Sonic “Bomb” Alarm Clock and Bed Shaker make sure you are up on time. In addition to an extra loud alarm ring, this amplified alarm clock also features pulsating flashing alert lights and a vibrator which shakes your bed to make sure you get up. This alarm clock also features a battery backup, so the time and alarm setting are still maintained if the power goes out. Amplified alarm clocks are great for those who need a little extra help getting out of bed in the morning.

Personal Amplification Systems

While not a substitute for hearing aids, Personal Amplification Systems can help us hear in certain situations, particularly when there is a lot of background noise. The Pocketalker Ultra with Ear Bud or Headset by Williams Sound is designed to amplify sound close to the listener while reducing background noise. Depending on your needs, Personal Amplification Systems can be used with or without hearing aids, making them helpful for people with a range hearing loss.

Should I get an Assistive Listening Device?

While ALDs can be very helpful to people suffering from hearing loss, using them without understanding your hearing loss can lead to delaying a diagnosis of a potentially treatable condition, allowing for the condition to get worse. If you suspect that you are suffering from hearing loss, the first step is to book a Free Hearing Test. After our Audiologists and Registered Hearing Instrument Providers determine the degree, if any, of your hearing loss and will guide you to the right Assistive Listening Device.