An important part of treating your hearing loss is considering what kind of hearing aid features are right for you.
If you’re concerned about being able to hear well in public venues like your local place of worship or when navigating your way through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, you should talk to your audiologist about how to use hearing loop systems.
Hearing Loop System Basics
Hearing loop systems use electromagnetic energy to transmit sound directly into hearing aids or cochlear implants to make it easier for people with hearing loss to hear in certain venues.
Hearing loop systems are made up of four parts:
- A sound source, such as a public address (PA) system
- An amplifier
- A loop of wire that goes around the entire venue
- A receiver is known as a telecoil
Telecoil in Hearing Aids
Telecoils, also sometimes referred to as t-coils, are small copper wires found in many types of hearing aids. When activated, they act as a receiver in hearing loop systems and allow you to stream sound that’s coming from the speaker or PA system directly into your hearing device. This can help eliminate background noise, increase listening comprehension and make your listening experience much clearer and more enjoyable.
How To Know if My Location Has a Hearing Loop System
While more and more public places are implementing hearing loop systems, it’s always good to check before you attend a play or lecture to know if you’ll be able to use your telecoil to hear better.
If you’re already at a specific venue, look to see if they have posted a blue sign with a white ear icon and the letter “T” in the bottom right-hand corner. If so, this means they have a hearing loop system that connects with your telecoil.
You can also check in beforehand, either by calling the establishment or checking on Google Maps. Go to the “About” tab of the venue you’re looking at and scroll down to read about their accessibility features.
Should I Get Hearing Aids With Telecoil?
While plenty of hearing aids come equipped with telecoil, not all models have them. This is especially true of smaller hearing aids that fit completely within the ear canal simply because of their size.
There are numerous factors you need to consider when choosing hearing aids, including your degree of hearing loss, comfortability, aesthetic preferences and other individual needs. Make sure to consider all of these factors before making your decision.
If you do decide on hearing aids with telecoil, make sure you talk with your audiologist about how to use them properly. Studies have shown that hearing aid users who received the necessary training and information about hearing loop systems experienced greater benefits when utilizing them in public spaces.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to discuss your hearing aid options, call Hearing Advancement Center today.
