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What are your favorite apps for hearing loss or tools you use?
Hearing Loss | Last Active: Mar 21, 2021 | Replies (153)Comment receiving replies
Hi..I am new to this forum as of today. Like everyone I am having issues hearing with masks everywhere. I have two Phonak rechargeable hearing aids with Blue Tooth. This is my second set of aids and they are a huge help, but of course there are still issues. I haven't really found the included Phonak software for various noise situations particularly helpful. My right ear has quite profound deafness. Could anyone offer suggestions for apps or devices like separate mics that improve sound in social situations. Also helpful for watching TV with a friend? Without connecting to TV while away from home? Very much appreciate any thoughts from solution finders out there. Also wonder how people feel about Phonak hearing aids if you have experienced them and find them satisfactory. I know there are so many variations in hearing loss so its not an easy answer. Thank you for your thoughts.
Replies to "Hi..I am new to this forum as of today. Like everyone I am having issues hearing..."
@sunnyone Understanding speech in noise is the most challenging task for people with hearing loss. The manufacturers know this so there is a lot of sales pitches when marketing their new products. We should be able to exchange our old hearing aids for updated ones, similar to how we buy cars. The best technology to understand someone in a noisy environment is to be as close as possible to the person speaking. Most hearing aid manufacturers can sell you a remote mic that will stream the microphone directly into the hearing aids. That same device can be used to listen to TV at your friends house. You would just set the microphone as close to the TV speaker as possible. The nice thing about this solution is that the hearing aid app allows you change how much input comes from the streaming device and how much comes into the hearing aid microphones. During commercials, you could adjust the balance so that you can hear your friend without having to talk above the TV. Another option is to use a personal FM system. This solution does not lock you into the hearing aid manufacturer.
Tony in Michigan
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Sunnyone, Welcome to Connect. You've found a place where questions can be asked and answers can be found. Phonak makes a quality hearing aid. DId you provider share information about the Phonak accessories? The Roger Pen, a hand held microphone is made by Phonak. It's a rather expensive product, but many people find it worth buying. There are less expensive devices too.
Hearing aid quality and value depends a great deal on the person fitting them. Sometimes they do not explain the options you deserve to know about. For instance, do your aids have activated telecoils? That's a must for anyone who wants to get the most out of hearing aids. BlueTooth is nice, but telecoils can connect you to the technology in public places that provides the 'communication access' that is required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. There's a lot to learn about accessories and features. We are all different because our hearing losses vary. Many in this group have extensive experience with technology, so keep asking questions.