Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) help people with hearing impairments hear better. They can make speech clearer in noisy places and amplify sounds for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. ALDs usually have portable systems that send sound signals directly to the user’s ears, cutting out background noise and distance issues.
Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists can help you choose the right ALD. Their team will assess your hearing needs and recommend the best device for you, considering your hearing loss severity, lifestyle, and budget.
Assistive Listening Devices vs. Hearing Aids
Both ALDs and hearing aids help people with hearing loss, but they do so in different ways. ALDs boost specific sounds or cut down background noise, making them great for watching TV, attending lectures, or talking in noisy places.
Hearing aids, on the other hand, are worn in or behind the ear and make sounds louder and clearer across different frequencies. Audiologists prescribe and fit hearing aids to meet individual hearing needs.
While hearing aids are tailored to fix specific hearing issues, ALDs provide extra help in certain situations, improving speech clarity and reducing distractions. Together, they make communication easier for people with hearing challenges.
Types of Assistive Listening Devices
ALDs come in different types to suit various needs. Here are some common ones:
Audio Induction Loop
An audio induction loop, or hearing loop, improves sound for those with hearing impairments. It uses a wire loop in an area like a room or counter that sends electromagnetic signals. These signals are picked up by hearing aids or cochlear implants, giving users clearer sound directly into their devices. Hearing loops reduce background noise and work well in public spaces like theaters and lecture halls.
Infrared System
An infrared system uses light to send audio signals wirelessly. A transmitter sends light with audio info, and users wear receivers with headphones or neck loops to pick up the signals. This system is great for places needing privacy, like courtrooms and conference rooms, as it provides clear sound without interference.
FM System
An FM system uses radio waves to send sound. A transmitter worn by the speaker sends sound to a receiver worn by the listener. FM systems are useful in classrooms, theaters, and meetings. However, they can face issues in crowded places with many FM systems. Despite this, they are popular for their portability and ease of use.
Personal Amplified System
A personal amplified system helps people hear better in conversations, meetings, or while watching TV. It has a microphone for the speaker and a receiver for the listener. The microphone captures sound and sends it to the receiver, amplifying the sound for the user. These systems are portable and improve speech clarity.
Assistive Listening Devices FAQs
What is the most common ALD?
The personal FM system is the most common ALD. It has a transmitter and receiver to send sound as radio waves, providing clear, amplified sound. FM systems are versatile, easy to use and help overcome background noise and distance issues.
Why are ALDs necessary?
ALDs help people who have trouble hearing by making sounds clearer and letting them communicate better. They improve speech in loud places and help people who have trouble hearing talk to others and stay aware of their surroundings, which makes them more independent and safe.
Can ALDs replace hearing aids?
ALDs can’t be used instead of hearing aids. Hearing aids are made to fit the specific hearing needs of the user and process all kinds of sounds. ALDs can help more in some cases than hearing aids, but they can’t do everything that hearing aids can do. For the best hearing aid, they should be used together.
Assistive Listening Devices | Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists
Explore a range of ALDs at Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists to improve your hearing and communication. Our hearing experts in Utah and South Nevada will help you find the right device for your needs. We offer personal FM systems, infrared systems, and more.
Visit our clinics in Utah and Nevada, including St. George, Cedar City, Murray, Hurricane, Beaver, Panguitch, Mesquite, and Overton.
Start your journey to better hearing today by scheduling a consultation with expert audiologists in Utah and South Nevada.