@sunnyone I have the original Phonak Roger Pen device. While it works well, it is somewhat awkward to use. Phonak R & D listened to users, (many from HLAA at a national convention, where they gave out over a hundred of the original 'Rogers' to attendees for that purpose), and have made excellent upgrades to the product since then that make it easier to use.

Few who use hearing aids, know that these types of hearing assistive technology are available. Some resist it because it shows when they are using it. Providers don't tell us about it because of the cost, and also because it shows and so many resist getting hearing help from hearing aids in the first place. Providers don't want to push, but in the process they leave out what can be extremely valuable information to people with hearing loss who struggle in noisy settings.

The original Phonak device I used bravely over 20 years ago was attached to my Phonak hearing aids by a wire that plugged in. The other end of the cord contained a microphone, a hand held device that looked like a black cigarette. It worked as well as the Roger Pen for me, but was a bit clumsy due to that cord. 🙂 I loved it though because it brought me back into the social mainstream. In fact I wore out 3 of them because the cords shorted out!

One of my favorite hearing loss stories involved that device. It was in a social setting with some 'prominent' locals. I was contributing fluidly to a conversation among a group of ladies. One of them pulled me aside and asked me what I was using. It gave me the opportunity to explain, which is always a good thing....teach others....always. The corker was her comment. "That is wonderful because I never thought you were smart!"

How many hard of hearing people feel 'not smart' in noisy social settings?

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