Telecoil or “t-coil” technology can make a dramatic difference in your ability to hear clearly and understand dialogue. It is one of the most common and oldest technologies available in hearing aids. However, many people don’t realize that their hearing aids have this wireless capability and don’t know how or when to use it.
What is telecoil?
The telecoil in a hearing aid functions as a wireless antenna that links into a sound system and delivers customized sound directly to the listener’s hearing aid.The sound quality through the t-coil system is strong and clear, greatly improving the listening experience.
Where can I find T-Coil technology?
- Landline telephones are often compatible with t-coils
- Theaters or churches (and other places of worship) may provide looped rooms or specified seats to have sound conducted directly into hearing aids
- Hearing aid manufacturers provide t-coil accessories that can work with your cell phone
- T-coil “headphones” that plug into your cell phone or iPod can stream music and phone calls
- Purchase a loop for your home that works when you are seated in your living room or on your favorite chair to hear the TV more clearly
How do I use the t-coil technology?
First you need to know if your hearing aids have a t-coil built into the circuitry. Contact your Audiologist to determine if your hearing aids have t-coils built in. The Audiologist can activate the t-coil to turn on manually when you select a specified setting (or program) on your hearing aid, or automatically, when a telecoil signal is detected.
Your Audiologist can also adjust the volume and frequency response in the t-coil program to make the sound clearer or attenuate surrounding environmental noises while listening in the t-coil program.
Second, research ways to use the t-coil technology. Ask your Audiologist, search online, and visit places in your community to determine where induction loop technology may be available.
Do all hearing aids come with telecoil technology?
While t-coil receivers are available on a wide variety of hearing aids, some hearing aids may be too small to have t-coils built in due to small ear canal size or small behind-the-ear models, as they do require a certain amount of space.
Enhance your hearing in difficult listening environments
Whether you already wear hearing aids or you are purchasing new hearing aids, discuss your t-coil options with your Audiologist to enhance your hearing in various difficult listening environments and get the most benefit out of your hearing aids!
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