Assistive listening devices

Today a great variety of assistive listening devices are available to supplement and work together with the hearing aid, making life easier for children with impaired hearing. Here are mentioned some of the most common types, but assistive devices can often be custom-made to suit individual needs.

MicroLink by Widex
FM transmitter/receiver systems are often used in the classroom. The device allows the teacher to talk into a special microphone that sends the signal by cordless transmission to the FM receiver connected to the hearing aid. Some receivers are connected to the hearing aid by a cord, other systems use a cordless receiver connected directly onto the hearing aid such as the MicroLink by Widex.

In addition to use in the classroom, the cordless FM system can assist in better listening at home and during other activities. For example while walking in the city a child can hear the comments of a parent despite traffic noise.

This gives the parent better contact with the child in noisy situations which thereby gives the child and parents more freedom.

At home, the television or stereo can be set at a volume comfortable for the entire family if connected to an FM system. Sports participation can be more rewarding if the coach’s instructions are spoken into an FM microphone.

Loop systems
A loop system transfers the sound by cordless transmission from a transmitter to a receiver via electromagnetic waves. The transmitter may for instance be mounted on a television set, whereas the receiver typically is a hearing aid with a telecoil.

Children with a severe hearing loss may benefit from a loop system in difficult listening conditions such as classrooms, theatres, churches and their own home. The system may bear resemblance to an FM transmitter/receiver, but it is less mobile. Most hearing aids are available with a telecoil.

Alarm systems
Hearing impaired children can have problems hearing various types of alarms. This can be helped by special alarm systems. An alarm system can be connected to a doorbell, telephone bell, alarm clock, smoke detector etc. The alarm signal is then enhanced with the help of amplification, physical vibration or flashing lights.