I know I've missed some of this conversation, so please excuse me if I'm repeating something that has already been discussed.

I encourage everyone who needs hearing aids whether for the first time, or for the 'umpteenth' time, be sure your new hearing aids are equipped with manually controlled telecoils and volume controls. To get the most from hearings aids in many settings you need them both. Don't let an audiologist or other fitter talk you into choosing one over the other.

Telecoils can connect you to so many things, including your computers, cellphones, iPads, tablets, radios, TV and any audio device that has an input jack. Don't let anyone tell you that telecoils are 'old technology'. To be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public venues must provide communication access, just as they must provide mobility access. Many have installed hearing loops that provide wireless connection from the sound system to telecoil equipped hearing aids. All you do is push the t-coil button on your hearing aid and you will hear clearly without any ambient noise interfering. It's like having binoculars for your ears! It's almost magic when you try it for the first time.

Some places may have installed FM or Infrared technology to be in compliance. Those telecoils will let you connect in those places when you use your telecoils with the receivers the venue provides. You will need a small personal device called a neckloop to plug into those receivers, but it sure beats putting on a set of headphones or ear buds when you can use the personal technology that has been programmed for your individual hearing loss needs. The manual volume control speaks for itself. YOU should have the ability to turn it up or down. Automatic sounds good in sales pitches, but in reality there are many times when sound is too loud or too soft. YOU want to be able to make the adjustment.

Many states have active advocacy groups through HLAA. Those states are benefiting from the education and advocacy being done to assure hard of hearing Americans have the communication access that is their right. It takes a village, right? PEOPLE who volunteer their time make things happen.

Interestingly, the ADA was written with a clause that says "In order to receive accommodations, individuals must ask for them in advance of need." That simply means that we, as hard of hearing Americans, must be proactive in requesting what we need. In order to do that WE HAVE TO KNOW what we need. I strongly recommend that you check out the HLAA website http://www.hearingloss.org and also go to http://www.hearingloop.org to learn more about why this matters. We WANT to hear.

Unfortunately, far too many people with hearing loss just stop going to places where one has to hear to be able to enjoy or participate. Bad idea. Isolation is not healthy. Be proactive. Mayo Clinic Connect provides a great place to share information. THe advocacy and information sharing beyond that lies with each of us who learn how to live well with our hearing loss.

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