Clearer Hearing In Public Spaces Through T-Coils
I came across an article about a theatre in Wisconsin who had generous donors that enabled a Hearing loop for hearing aid and cochlear implant patrons with T-Coil technology. I didn’t know what it was, so I started doing some research. The most interesting thing I found was this YouTube video that shows you what a typical hearing aid user hears in a public speaking environment (second 47).
While everyone portrayed in this video has grey hair, I immediately thought about Charlotte in her Kindergarten class, school years as she grows and any public theater experience she may encounter.
Then it shows you what someone with a hearing aid might experience IF there is a hearing loop installed in the room AND the T-Coil has been activated by the audiologist, I got me excited. I know many kids use FM Systems in school and think this must also leverage T-Coils, but I hadn’t quite understood the real impact it could make for Charlotte until this video.
We are currently looking into upgrading Charlotte’s Cochlear Nucleus 6 to the Nucleus 7, as well as changing her hearing aid. Cochlear has partnered with Resound hearing aids to develop a compatible system for unilaterally implanted and aided people like Charlotte. I’m assuming both also leverage T-Coil technology, but I will definitely find out now. My interest has been peeked!
“A telecoil is a small copper coil that was originally included in hearing aids to boost the magnetic signal from a landline telephone handset. Due to technology advances, T-coil now can interface in several more avenues through its magnetic signal – including Bluetooth neckloops and hearing loops.”
Getting to where we are with the basic functionality has been overwhelming at times. However, five years in, I’m finally feeling like it’s time to access some of the add-on features that can improve Charlotte’s education experience, as well as live theater and screen-time entertainment.
Always learning something new!
*** 2/14/19***
Found this simple definition of what Hearing Loops are:
“What is a hearing loop? Simply put, it is like a wireless network for hearing aids. An inductive wire loop transmits sound signals from a microphone, speaker or public address system directly to telecoil-equipped hearing aids or cochlear implants. It functions as an antenna, relaying sounds directly into the ear without background noise. The venue does not have to purchase, maintain, and replace portable units and visitors don’t have to be embarrassed by using bulky headsets.” (Source)
And at our last Auditory Speech Therapy appointment, I noticed the “Hearing Loop” logo on the front door window. Funny to think we’d been to that office more than 250 times and I’m just not paying attention to it. There is a lot to digest when you’re a parent learning everything for your child…. cheers to a growth mindset!