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Cochlear Implant Experiences

Hearing Loss | Last Active: Aug 25 8:04am | Replies (64)
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@julieo4

Assistive technology that goes beyond hearing aids and cochlear implant processors can make a huge difference in noisy settings. Yet, many people don't know it's available. Having a telecoil component in the hearing aid is a must. Most aids for severe hearing loss have telecoils, but often they are not activated by the provider. If you don't know about they you don't know you might benefit from them.

Do you ever use any of the add on technologies with your hearing aids? DId your provider explain them to you and also let you try them?

Have you used a hearing loop, FM system or Infrared system in a public place with your hearing aids, and not a provided receiver?

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Replies to "Assistive technology that goes beyond hearing aids and cochlear implant processors can make a huge difference..."
Tom Lehman | @tlehman | May 1, 2023

Thanks, Julie. Yes I’m aware of those techs. I have had telecoils for at least 20 years but I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve used it. Cell phones and Bluetooth have replaced those old phones and I find few places have loop systems, at least places I go.

I’m told a new longer range Bluetooth system is coming that will make it easier and cheaper for venues to install.

The biggest change for me came quite a few years ago with the first iCom Bluetooth neckloop for Phonak aids. I’m now on ComPilot II. Phone calls are pretty easy and I can stream music, tv, videos, etc. Of course now Bluetooth is built into the aids and CIs.

I’m told some / all CIs do not have telecoil. I think LE Bluetooth and a form of wifi may make telecoils unnecessary. I’d be interested in how others feel about that.

I also have a Phonak cordless phone that connects to my hearing aids if I hold near them. I used that quite a bit a number of years ago but now just use the ComPilot.

I have not tried the microphones that you give to the other person as I am generally able to converse even in somewhat noisy spaces. My providers have always introduced various technologies and I’d hate to think others do not.

Thanks for the thoughts.

Tom

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