Heard Around the World! Hearing Aid Compatibility and Wireless Assistive Devices
By Myers, David G., PhD; Hearing Review, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 22-25, 86Publication Date: January 2005
Article discusses the widespread use of telecoils and induction loop systems, which enable wireless communication for people who use hearing aids. The Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1998 calls for most landline telephones to broadcast sound and an electromagnetic signal that can be received by Hearing Aids with telecoils. The author, who uses a hearing aid, can simply tap his hearing aid when answering the telephone to hear a boost in the caller’s voice strength and clarity. In Great Britain, induction loop systems broadcast sound to telecoil-equipped hearing aids in most churches, cathedrals, and auditoriums, as well as train station ticket windows, tourist information counters, bank teller stations, and post office windows. Induction loop systems are mandated for all London Underground ticket centers and all future London taxis, while Britain’s National Health Service routinely includes telecoils in hearing aids. The author finds that this invisible, hassle-free assistive technology much more user-friendly than the incompatible infrared and FM systems utilized in the United States.
Published by: Ascend Media LLC (Website:http://www.ascendmedia.com)
Link to text: http://hearingreview.com/Articles.ASP?articleid=H0501F02
