A new way to hear better
My husband has hearing aids but he says he still can't hear me above the background noise. Is there something new that could help him hear me?
Yes there are some new developments for this specific problem. We have had FM systems for many years but they were quite pricey. Pocket talkers were somewhat cumbersome and the aids had to be taken out to use those. The new development is a microphone that uses a blue tooth streamer to take a voice, TV or cell phone directly to the hearing aids. This helps bring the voice of who you want to hear to your ear louder than most everything else in the room. I like to use the term "Spousal Microphone." No more selective listening when you have this turned on. But be careful if you forget to turn it off you may say something or do something you didn't want anyone to hear like using the bathroom or complaining about your spouse.
I recently attended an educational seminar where I was able to experience this microphone for myself in a very busy restaurant with about 20 other audiologists. Every one was eating and drinking and talking and laughing but I could hear the Rep's voice above everyone else right to the demonstration hearing aids in my ear. She was across the room with her back to me. I have normal hearing but I could tell that this was going to work for my patients. So today was the first day I was able to fit one on my own patient. His chief complaint was that he could hear everyone except his wife at the monthly potluck. When I turned the "Spousal Mic" on and clipped it to my blouse his eyes lit up. He said, "Wow you are right in my ears." Made my day! I love solving problems.
If you are having the same problem you can call me with your make and model of hearing aid and I can let you know if a "Spousal Mic" is compatible with your hearing aids.
Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for more than 12 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third 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.