Small but practical

Traditionally, people think of the installation of pricey hearing loops in large, noisy venues where communication  for those with hearing loss is close to impossible. Here, one might mention meeting/conference rooms in workplaces or in libraries; auditoriums; places of worship; convention halls etc.

But these are not the places where we spend significant amounts of time in daily life. Yet, understanding speech in background noise is an ongoing challenge, especially in smaller groups and during one-on-one conversations, at home or at work.

Earlier, I had mentioned the usefulness of a neckloop and of desk loops for businesses. These desk loops are basically dual intercom systems that can be tied to a hearing loop.

However, I came across some interesting and practical loop ideas while searching for everyday and more affordable applications of loop technology. Remember that telecoils are necessary for tapping into a hearing loop.

Check it out

As always, the links for different products are for information and illustration only, as Loop Minnesota does not favor one manufacturer or distributor over another.

Make sure that you read all the instructions and specifications regarding the equipment. Are any other accessories required, such as amplifiers, batteries or microphones. Discuss your needs, prices and installation details with a specialist. Might it be a good idea to get professional help so that the system is installed correctly?

• How about a loop built into a clipboard? This is a portable device and could be handy in many work situations. https://yourhearing.net/clipboardhearingloop.htm
• “Loop mats” can be used at home or for easing communication for businesses. Find more info on them at Williams AV

The mat can be placed on or below a non-metal chair so that one sits in the loop. Or, it can be on the floor in front of a customer service window, for example for people to step into the loop.

Yet, might the mat be a tripping hazard? How about people in wheelchairs or with walkers? These are installation details to be discussed with the representative.

• Intercom loops for homes, apartment buildings or businesses.

Going to visit friends in an apartment building with a fuzzy intercom? What was that? Wha-whup. I-boo-penny. Instead, it would be nice to hear: Come on up. I’m in two-twenty.

There is help for this:

www.ampetronic.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/UP39701-4-HLS-2C-datasheet-interactive-V005.pdf

These are just some examples. There are many more manufacturers and vendors of hearing loop systems. So, where would you like to hear and understand better? I bet there is a loop for that.

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For any questions or suggestions regarding hearing loops, contact us.

Also visit my website: hearing-loss-talk.com where I blog about all sorts of topics related to hearing and hearing loss.