Hearing loss and the correct hearing aid

Hi, Art.

I'll defer a telecoil explanation to: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audio_induction_loop

There is also a locating function now within Google: https://www.hearingloss.org/google-maps-now-includes-hearing-loops/, as well as other online locators like this one: https://centerforhearingaccess.org/state-lists/.

I opted not to get these for two reasons:
1) This option in my BTE/RICs would negate their waterproof designation, according to my audiologist, and I am very active.
2) I live in a smaller community and there are really no venues that have hearing loops, save some churches and large public venues, of which there are few.

Perhaps you have more opportunities where you live...

I do, however, LOVE the Blue Tooth connectivity for my phone, laptop and TV connector. I can focus the sound the comes from the connection and 'turn down' background noise.

A telecoil augments the effectiveness of your hearing aid. A telecoil is a simple, inexpensive copper wire to make your hearing aids act as a receiver.

Here's information about telecoils (video, handouts, graphics, FAQ). https://centerforhearingaccess.org/telecoils/

The webpage also includes a list of hearing aids with both telecoils and Bluetooth, something @julieo4 encouraged.

Telecoils give you access to your hearing rights under the ADA - the ability to hear clearly in theaters, government meetings, lectures, etc. There are 3 technologies: hearing loops, FM/RF, and infrared. Hearing loops are preferred by us consumers because it is the easiest and discrete. FM/RF and infrared you will need to borrow a neckloop to use with your telecoil.

If you choose not to get a telecoil, then you can borrow headphones at no cost. The problem is that you will not get as clear of a sound, and the headphones often create feedback when worn over your hearing aids.

About neckloops, with graphics https://centerforhearingaccess.org/glossary/neckloop/

Tele coils if used in a location which is equipped with this technology allows the sound from, for example, a concert to stream directly into your hearing aid.

Thank you for mentioning and explaining neckloops. That small piece of technology can be used just about any place where it can be plugged into an audio device.
This works well when there is a system in a venue that requires the use of receivers. Plug the neckloop into an FM or IR receiver, and your telecoil equipped hearing aid will receive direct sound. When a room is equipped with a hearing loop, all you have to do is turn on the telecoils switch on your hearing aid and pick up the sound you want to hear. No need to use a receiver.

Even that has become more complicated because those switches on hearing aids that we used to simply push, are now controlled for the most part by cell phones instead of push buttons. Good news or bad news??

This topic comes up in our HLAA discussion groups all the time. A lot of people, especially seniors, don't like having to depend on their cell phones to do everything. The result is that they don't do it and don't have access to the mandated communication access they have a right to.
It takes education and advocacy for communities to provide communication access. Hearing loss is invisible. Just think about those curb cuts that were installed everywhere 30 years ago. They were a part of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). So was communication access. BUT, the ADA clearly states that accommodations have to be requested.
No loops in your region? Why? The answer is because the people who can benefit greatly from them never came out of hiding to ask for them. Those in need of curb cuts and other forms of accessibility did what they needed to do.

People with hearing loss only hurt themselves by hiding their unique needs.

Thought you'd enjoy the cartoon below. Be sure to click on it.