Find phones for the hearing impaired with the experienced audiologists at North Shore Hearing P.C. Contact us today to schedule your free hearing screening.
Regular phones and phones for the hearing impaired are a necessity for communicating in today’s busy society. However, finding the best phones for hearing loss hasn’t always been an easy process, especially if you didn’t know where to look.
Today, those with hearing loss are much more fortunate and have access to a growing number of devices from virtually every manufacturer. Many of these devices offer amplified sound technology and several other cutting-edge features to help the hearing impaired stay in touch with family members, friends, and others.
Are Phones for Hearing Loss Available?
Since 1988, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has required all essential phones manufactured in the United States or imported to be hearing aid compatible. However, this legislation didn’t originally make accommodations for today’s digital technology.
As more and more wireless carriers transitioned from analog to digital services, accessibility for the hard of hearing and deaf continued to be a growing concern. The new digital technology allowed users to have access to improved efficiency and more features, including smartphones. Unfortunately, many digital phones caused problems and interference with hearing aid users.
It wasn’t until 10 years ago when the FCC modernized the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988. These updates ensured those who were deaf and hard of hearing were able to utilize digital wireless devices. This regulation was designed to increase the overall number of wireless devices that were hearing aid compatible.
Today, both landlines and wireless phones are offered from a variety of carriers and manufacturers. Some states even provide these phones and equipment free of charge or at a lower cost to individuals who qualify. As technology advances, so do the amazing opportunities offered to those with hearing disabilities. The ability to hear is directly related to your mental health and quality of life; and you deserve the best of both worlds.
Different Types of Phones for the Hearing Impaired
There are several different types of phones available for the hearing impaired. Some of the most common options include:
- Relayed captioning that dictates the conversation onto a screen
- Amplified audio and volume controls
- Enhanced visual and vibration options for notification
- Telecoil or hearing aid compatibility
- Video conferencing
- Wireless sound
Each hearing aid-compatible (HAC) phone is labeled with an “M” or “T”. M-labeled phones work with hearing aids, while T-labeled phones work with telecoils. The higher the rating next to the M or T, the better it works with each type of hearing aid device.
Choosing Phones with Amplified Technology
Today, there are several phones available for the hearing impaired through the use of amplified technology. Amplified telephones can help the hearing impaired have clearer telephone conversations. Most of these phones come with tone control and built-in amplification, so you can turn the volume up higher than a traditional telephone.
Many of these devices allow you to also adjust the frequency of the caller’s voice to suit your individual hearing needs. Because of this capability, it’s imperative for you to understand how much amplification you actually need. This is the central and most important factor you should consider when choosing phones for the hearing impaired.
Since hearing loss may be degenerative, it’s a good choice to work closely with an audiologist or hearing specialist at North Shore Hearing P.C. Your hearing specialist will guide you through the process. In most instances, we suggest you choose a phone with higher amplified technology than you currently need. With this type of device, you can always turn the volume down and adjust it upward in the event your hearing gets worse.
Contact North Shore Hearing P.C. Today
Buying a new hearing aid compatible phone will open the door to advanced technology, shared experiences with loved ones, improved sound quality, and a better quality of life overall. North Shore Hearing P.C. offers free hearing screenings to individuals with compromised hearing.
We believe that your comfort, health, and hearing are some of the most important aspects of life. With the ability to hear sounds clearly through amplified technology, your overall quality of life could be improved.
Speak with one of our specialists today to learn more about our services, product suggestions, and more. Our office is conveniently located in the Shoreham Plaza next to Route 25A. Call (631) 403-4885 or send a message online to schedule an appointment today.
