Assistive Listening Device

What is an Assistive Listening Device?

Assistive Listening Devices are specialized equipment that helps people with hearing loss to hear better in various environments. These devices work by amplifying sound and reducing background noise, making it easier for the user to focus on the primary sound source. They are particularly useful in public spaces, educational settings, and during meetings or conversations.

Types of Assistive Listening Devices

An assistive listening device (ALD) is designed to help individuals with hearing loss improve their ability to hear and understand sounds, particularly in challenging listening environments. ALDs can be used in combination with hearing aids or cochlear implants to enhance the listening experience in various situations.

TV Listening Systems

TV Listening Systems are devices designed to enhance the television audio experience for individuals with hearing impairments, providing clear and amplified sound through wireless headphones, neck loops, or personal amplifiers, ensuring better clarity and reducing background noise.

Alerting Devices

Alerting devices are designed to assist individuals with hearing impairments by using visual or vibrating signals to alert them to important sounds, such as doorbells, alarms, or phone calls. These devices ensure that crucial auditory cues are not missed, enhancing safety and awareness in daily life.

Accessories for hearing devices

These devices, such as universal phone amplifier, disposable covers for headphones, lanyard, remote microphones, TV Streamers, smartphone apps that enhance connectivity, maintenance kits and travel cases.

Amplified Phones

Amplified phones are specially designed telephones that increase the volume and clarity of the sound, making it easier for individuals with hearing loss to communicate. These phones often feature adjustable volume controls, enhanced ringers, and noise reduction capabilities to improve overall sound quality.

Personal Amplifiers

Compact and portable devices that increase sound levels and reduce background noise for the listener. These devices are simple to use, affordable, and effective in various environments such as home, work, and social settings.

FM Systems

FM Systems use frequency modulation to transmit sound directly from a speaker's microphone to a listener's receiver, effectively reducing background noise and overcoming distance issues, making them ideal for educational settings and public speaking events.

Infrared Systems

Similar to FM systems but use infrared light to transmit sound. Ideal for private settings as they don't penetrate walls.

Induction Loop Systems

Utilise electromagnetic fields to transmit sound. They are compatible with the telecoil feature found in many hearing aids and cochlear implants.

Benefits of Using ALDs

Improved Clarity

Enhances speech understanding, especially in noisy environments or where there is significant distance from the sound source.

Versatility

Can be used with or without hearing aids and in various settings.

Personalisation

Settings can be adjusted for individual hearing needs.

Inclusivity

Makes public spaces and communication more accessible for those with hearing impairments.