Can Hearing Aids Be Used with Telephones or Other Communication Devices?

Hearing aids have been a game-changer for people with hearing loss, helping them stay connected to the world around them. However, for some, communicating on the phone or other communication devices can still be a challenge.

In this article, we'll explore whether these sound-amplifying devices can be used with telephones and other communication devices and provide some tips for those who are struggling with communication.

The short answer is YES, hearing aids can be used with telephones and other communication devices. In fact, many of them today have built-in features specifically designed to improve phone communication. These features can help reduce background noise and improve clarity, making it easier to hear and understand the person on the other end of the line.

One of the most common features found in these devices today is telecoil. A telecoil is a small coil inside the hearing aid that can pick up electromagnetic signals from telephones and other audio devices.

Here's how it works:

This feature helps to reduce background noise and improve sound quality during phone conversations. Telecoil can be activated by simply pushing a button on the device, or it can be set to automatically switch on when the phone is detected.

Another feature commonly found in these modern devices is Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth technology allows the unit to connect to a range of audio devices, including smartphones, TVs, and computers. This feature allows users to stream audio directly to their devices, improving sound quality and reducing background noise.

Tip: If you're looking for hearing aids that support Bluetooth, the Jabra Enhance Plus and Eargo Neo Hifi have this wireless connectivity feature.

So, what are some tips for using hearing aids with telephones and other communication devices?

Activate telecoil mode: If your device has a telecoil feature, make sure to activate it when using the phone. This will improve sound quality and reduce background noise, making it easier to hear and understand the person on the other end of the line.

Adjust the volume: Make sure to adjust the volume to a comfortable level. If the volume is too loud, it can be uncomfortable or even painful. If the volume is too low, you may miss important parts of the conversation.

Consider using a captioned telephone: Captioned telephones are phones that display real-time captions of the conversation on a screen. This can be particularly helpful for people with hearing loss who struggle with understanding spoken language. Some captioned phones are also compatible with hearing devices, making it easier to hear and read the conversation at the same time.

Use headphones or earbuds: If your devices don't have Bluetooth connectivity, consider using headphones or earbuds when listening to music or watching videos on your phone or other devices. This can improve sound quality and reduce background noise.

Consult with your audiologist: If you're struggling with phone communication despite using an electronic assistive device, it's important to consult with your audiologist. They can provide advice on the best technology to use for your needs, as well as tips and tricks for improving phone communication.

The Bottom Line

Hearing aids can be used with telephones and other communication devices, and in fact, many of these today are specifically designed to improve phone communication. By using the telecoil feature or Bluetooth connectivity and making adjustments to volume and settings, people with hearing loss can stay connected with loved ones and participate in daily conversations with ease.