Helpful tips for telephone use
Dr. Tia Flynn | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 10 years, 12 months AGO
Always remember that a hearing-impaired person will have trouble hearing on the telephone because they cannot see the sounds being made on the lips of the person talking. Most people with hearing loss will speech read (lip read) whether they realize it or not.
If you are having trouble hearing on the phone, try some of these tips.
New technology
Cell phones, smart phones and computers. Don't use your hearing at all. Try texting or emailing instead.
Newer internet phones with a screen that allows you to read in type what they are saying.
Bluetooth streaming and duo phone. Hear your cell phone or Bluetooth-compatible land line directly through your hearing aids into both ears. This is a very powerful tool!
Skype. This computer program lets you see the people you want to talk to from the camera on your computer to theirs.
Older technology
Phones:
* If your phone has a volume control, make sure it is turned up. If your phone is not loud enough, invest in an amplified phone.
* If your phone has a speaker phone, try it. This allows you to hear from both ears, and you don't have to hold the receiver to your ear.
* Relay services for the deaf and hard of hearing.
* Telecoil or telephone program in the hearing aid. If you have a telecoil switch or push button telephone program on your aid, give it a try. Access may be also by a remote control. You may hear a hum or buzz, but you may be able to hear voices better with it turned on.
* Volume control on the hearing aid or access by remote control. If you can't hear someone, try turning up the volume.
Whether you have good hearing, hearing loss or hearing aids, if you have trouble hearing on the phone, one of the above suggestions should help you overcome your problem.
Communicating properly is important, so don't give up. Find something that works best for you. New technology can be simple and easy to use - you just have to find a patient person to show you how.
Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for over 14 years.
Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 3rd St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit www.affordablehearinginc.com for a free copy of the consumers guide to hearing aids and watch helpful videos.
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