Approximately 37.7 million adults in the U.S. report some trouble hearing. If you’re navigating the personal change of adjusting to hearing aids, simple tasks such as watching TV can feel a little frustrating.
Luckily, there are still several ways to comfortably watch your favorite shows alongside your family and friends without needing to turn up the volume.
So, make a quick stop at Mollie Stone’s Markets to stock up on your favorite snacks before this weekend’s TV binge and use some of these tips to enhance your listening experience.
Utilize Bluetooth® 
Your first instinct when experiencing hearing loss and watching content is likely to turn up the volume. This can be both damaging to your hearing and annoying to others in the room.
Many newer models of hearing aids have Bluetooth connectivity capabilities. You can buy a Bluetooth streaming adapter for your smart TV, which allows you to connect the sound from your content directly to your hearing aid. You can also adjust the volume for just yourself using your smartphone.
Another option is to buy Bluetooth headphones. If your TV supports Bluetooth, you can connect directly to your headphones to stream sound.
Use Assistive Listening Devices or Hearing Loops
If your hearing aids don’t have Bluetooth capabilities, you can still hear the audio through your hearing aids by purchasing an assistive listening device. Assistive listening devices plug into your TV and allow you to hear audio and adjust the volume for yourself through your hearing aids.
Hearing loops are useful if your hearing aid has a telecoil or t-coil. A hearing loop is a device that amplifies the sound of the television. The user wears a loop around their neck that picks up the audio. If you are unsure if your hearing aids have a telecoil, reach out to your audiologist.
Additional Ways to Watch TV When You Have Hearing Loss
There are other resources for enjoying TV shows and movies without turning up the volume.
Other tips include:
- Using a soundbar
- Turning on closed captioning
- Turning down the base so other sounds are clearer
To learn more about how to enjoy the next new series safely, call San Francisco Audiology to schedule an appointment today.