Watching TV with Hearing Aids

Sometimes, even with hearing aids, you may still find yourself turning up the television volume. This can make watching TV with family difficult if those around you find the volume to be too high. Luckily, assistive listening devices can help improve your TV watching experience.

Types of assistive listening devices that can improve TV watching:

• Induction loops
• Bluetooth and FM systems
• Captioned television

Most modern hearing aids have wireless capabilities which allow you to stream TV sound directly to your hearing aids. The most common device used for this streaming is an induction loop or neck loop. You may have come across a neck loop at church or at a theater performance. For TV use, the loop system may connect to the audio via the jack on the television or with a microphone placed near the speaker. The sound is then transmitted to either the loop running through the room or to a personal loop that you wear. You may also have to turn your hearing to the telecoil setting. Some hearing aids also offer wireless connectivity through Bluetooth and FM systems as more devices move to smart technology.

Closed captioned television is also commonly used to improve TV watching. Closed captioning allows you to see the dialogue. All digital TVs over 13 inches are required to offer closed captioning. You can find the option through your TV settings menu and sometimes the option is easily turned on and off using your remote.

Finally, anytime you find hearing difficult you should talk to your hearing care professional. Your hearing aids may need an adjustment, cleaning or repair. Your hearing care professional wants you to always hear your best and should be informed of any changes. Talk to your hearing care professional today to learn more about what options are available to improve your TV watching experience.