News Articles:

Spring Seminar a Success

Solutions for Hearing in Noise

May 13, 2000 --

Hearing in background noise is the major complaint of consumers with hearing loss. Strategies for hearing in noise were presented. Successful strategies for hearing in noise include:

	Controlling the listening environment
	Directing others to use good diction and clear speech
	Planning ahead to anticipate difficult situations such as wedding receptions
	Use of speech reading

New hearing assistive technologies were discussed. Consumers were encouraged to use wired and wireless microphones to pick up voices in noise and send them directly to their ears. Directional microphones provide 6 to 12 dB of signal-to-noise improvement and are being incorporated into a variety of devices to improve hearing in noise. These devices include small multi-microphone arrays attached to radio transmitters, multiple microphone arrays on eyeglasses, and multiple microphones in conventional, programmable, and digital hearing aids. Cost varies (depending on the technology) from $125 to $4000.

Consumers were encouraged to talk with their audiologist to determine the best technology for their particular needs. Individual differences in hearing loss, communication needs, lifestyle, and dexterity are all important considerations when selecting the right technology for each individual.

For More Information Contact:

Audible Difference
5727 Pembroke Drive // Madison, WI 53711-5225
Tel: (608) 273-3036
FAX: (509) 694-4425
Internet: vheide@audible-difference.com