Assistive Listening Device Options for Those With Minor Hearing Loss

 

Hearing loss is a common medical condition. Approximately one in eight people in the United States (13%, or 30 million) aged 12 years or older has hearing loss in both ears, based on standard hearing examinations. These numbers are only expected to grow with age and time as we become more reliant on technological devices. Prolonged periods of loud noises can damage our ability to hear properly. Fortunately, there is a variety of hearing treatment options available to those with full or partial hearing loss.

Regular hearing tests

When hearing loss is detected earlier, assistive listening methods can be used to limit the damage. For this reason, many schools are utilizing early and regular hearing tests. These are mandatory tests that are provided to children in elementary and middle schools. They are a form of a basic test that looks for any difficulty in hearing. If minor hearing loss is identified, they are referred to hearing consultants who can do additional testing and provide treatment options.

More advanced listening devices

As technology improves, so do listening devices. Years ago, when someone had hearing limitations, they would have to wear a bulky and difficult to control hearing aid. Today, however, hearing aids are made with advanced technology and have the ability to turn the volume up or down. They are also made to be much smaller, providing more comfort. Some devices are specifically used for times when heightened hearing is required, such as watching TV. Assistive listening devices for TV can be popped in and then taken out, after the TV show is over.

Greater awareness of loud noises

Many industries and loud noised environments are better controlled to prevent hearing loss. When loud noises are accounted for and corrected, those with minimal hearing loss can work to prevent further damage. The NIDCD estimates that approximately 15% of Americans (26 million people) between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency loss due to exposure to noise at work or during leisure activities. Warehouses and even concerts are taking note of these possibilities by providing or requiring proper hearing protection.

Better ear health care

Ear infections in younger children tend to be somewhat expected. However, when ear infections become a chronic problem, or they never seem to fully go away, they can cause permanent damage. This damage can also lead to some degrees of hearing loss. If your child frequently experiences ear infections, it is important to have regular hearing tests completed. Also, particularly bad ear infections should be properly treated by a medical professional to prevent such hearing losses.

Closed captioning and sign language

Although full hearing loss is not as common, it does occur. A child or adult who has full hearing loss no longer has to miss out on the many entertainments of life. Almost all TVs have the ability to engage closed captioning, allowing them to read the words along the bottom of the screen. Sign language is also an option for communicating with one another, or even for attending a concert. Assistive listening devices for TV provide those with hearing loss the ability to watch their favorite TV shows. There are also different types of assistive listening devices for TV, for those with all degrees of hearing loss present.

The importance for great hearing aid care

A hearing aid is an extremely important tool to many. Without it, you would not have the ability to listen to music, communicate with others, or watch TV. Improper care of assistive listening devices for TV and other purposes can actually cause further hearing loss damages. If you do opt for a hearing aid, it is important to properly care for it and make all of the recommended upgrades, as needed.

There is a significant amount of people currently living with some degree of hearing loss. While there are numerous options available for treatments or abilities to increase hearing, many are not aware of these. Regular hearing tests at the school age can identify hearing problems earlier. Loud industries can reduce noise levels for employee and customer protection. Hearing aids and assistive listening devices for TV can help those that are hearing impaired to still engage in their favorite activities.