Background noise is the most common barrier for people with hearing loss. Social settings create noise. So do fans, heat registers, audio devices, etc. One of the first signs of hearing loss is not being able to understand conversation if there is any kind of noise in the area. Often the person with hearing loss thinks others are not 'speaking up', or that they are mumbling. It's not the speaker; it's the listener.

There are some solutions, but you have to be willing to use them. Streamers that are directional can connect to hearing aids and will pick up desired sound while minimizing background noise. Small microphones can be handheld or put on a table or even a companion's lapel to bring sound direct to hearing aids. Many people refuse to use these devices because they show. (That's a whole other discussion.)

For many hard of hearing people add on technology that works with good quality hearing aids is positively life changing.

Did your hearing aid provider tell you about any of those add on technologies?

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