Hearing Aid Telecoils

These days, most new models of hearing aids come with devices called telecoils (unless they are too small for this feature). Depending on the type, a telecoil can be used in conjunction with a hearing aid microphone, or the user may switch between microphone and telecoil. Originally developed to help people with hearing aids understand speech from telephones, they now have many other uses.

If hearing loss is interfering with your daily life, there are many modern technologies and services that can help. To learn more about current hearing aid models and useful accessories, call HearingPlanet’s hearing aid specialists at 1-800-432-7669.

How Telecoils Can Help

A telecoil, also known as a t-coil or t-switch, is nothing more than a small piece of wire wrapped around a metal rod. Despite this simple design, it has the very useful ability to pick up on changes in magnetic fields. It is very similar to the way that hearing aid microphones pick up on sound waves, but it helps people hear a different kind of sound.

People who use hearing aids with this feature can use their telecoils in the following ways:

• On the phone. In the US, telephones made after 1989 are legally required to be compatible with telecoils. This means that they are capable of transmitting sounds through magnetic signals that a telecoil can pick up on. Not all cell phones currently have this feature, however, so be sure to ask about it when shopping for one.
• At the movies. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires movie theaters and other entertainment venues to be accessible to people with disabilities. This means that most theaters will provide assistive devices such as headsets for the hearing impaired. This can be used with your telecoil to achieve louder, clearer sound.
• With a loop. A loop is a device that can convert sound waves into magnetic signals. There are different models, which may be installed in a room, worn around the neck, or placed over the ear next to the hearing aid. When used in conjunction with an assistive listening device (ALD), they can make it easier to hold a conversation, enjoy a television show, and more.

Our hearing aid experts can provide more information about telecoils and their uses.

Contact Us

You do not have to let hearing loss interrupt your life. Contact HearingPlanet’s hearing aid consultants to learn about solutions by calling us at 1-800-432-7669.