A recurring question that we often get is, “What are the best hearing amplifiers?”
Throughout this article, I’m going to help you to understand the hearing solutions currently available and what option may be best suited for you. Knowing the differences between the different type of devices and what you can expect to receive from each is vital information when making this decision.
First, let’s be clear on what hearing amplification devices are.
What Is A Hearing Aid Amplifier?
A hearing aid amplifier increases the volume of speech, noise, and other environmental sounds via a worn device in a person’s ear.
Hearing aid amplifiers are not classified as hearing aids and can’t be sold as them. Although they may look similar and be marketed in the same way, they only amplify volume and provide no other assistance.
What Is An Assisted Hearing Device?
An assistive listening device (ALD) is a device that can help a hard of hearing person communicate better. This is also NOT a hearing aid and does not need to be prescribed by an audiologist.
It’s a listening device that is part of a system used to improve people’s hearing ability in various situations. Most commonly where they are unable to distinguish speech in noisy environments.
ALDs can range from TV and telephone devices to alerting devices.
What’s The Difference Between An Assisted Listening Device And A Hearing Amplifier?
Assisted Listening Device – Assisted listening devices offer a variety of functions to help people improve their hearing in busy or noisy environments or in situations where there is distance between the user and the sound they’re listening to.
They can be used to enhance telephone communication, TV reception, or listening in various public venues and can be used with or without hearing aids, depending on your hearing needs.
When used in conjunction with hearing aids, assisted listening technology can increase the positive benefits associated with hearing aids, helping you to hear much better.
Hearing Amplifier – Although worn on the ear like a hearing aid, they are not hearing aids.
Hearing amplifiers, or personal sound amplification products, are wearable devices that use a microphone to pick up nearby sounds. They then process this sound and deliver it to your ear at a louder volume. You don’t need a prescription to purchase a hearing amplifier.
When Is A Hearing Aid Amplifier Or Assisted Hearing Device Required?
An amplifier may be used when you need sound to be louder in a particular environment. This is not to be used every day, all day.
An ALD is only helpful when a sound needs to be enhanced from a device, such as a TV or a telephone.
What Is The Best Hearing Aid Amplifier And Assisted Hearing Device?
This is a general question that is possibly the hardest to answer. Simply put, there is not a “best” amplifier or ALD. There is only the best product for you so you can hear all the things you want.
We will determine this at a comprehensive hearing assessment. Once we know how you hear and what is happening within your ear, we can devise a plan for your improved hearing.
What Is A Pocket Talker And When Should It Be Used?
A pocket talker should be used for a one-to-one conversation.
A microphone is held by the speaker and transmits their voice to a receiver that the hard of hearing person has in their ear. It’s only suitable for particular settings.
Considering A Hearing Aid Amplifier Or Assisted Hearing Device?
If you are considering wearing an amplifier or using an ALD, you should get a hearing test to determine your individual needs. An audiologist can help guide you toward the device that will best accomplish your goals.
After helping over 10,000 people to achieve better hearing over the past 25 years, I’ve learned that the most important deciding factor between the people that achieve better hearing and those that don’t is not the hearing technology but the decision on who they decide to partner with.
Ready For Your Next Steps?
If you’re ready to partner with a professional audiologist and take the first step toward better hearing, please schedule a friendly, pain-free, comprehensive hearing assessment with our compassionate audiologists in Maryland.
We hope to see you soon.
