Does your hearing aid have a T-coil?

A T-coil, also known as a telecoil, is a tiny copper coil inside a hearing aid that’s primary function is to assist the hearing aid user with telephone communication. When the telephone receiver also has a telecoil, feedback (whistling) is eliminated.

A T-coil also means your hearing aid can couple to assistive listening devices and LOOP systems. The benefit means an improved signal-to-noise ratio which can assist the hearing aid user in adverse environments especially in public places.

LOOP systems can occur commercially or privately in residential settings. When a setting is “looped”, broadcast signals inside of that looped or wired area can be received directly electromagnetically through the telecoil of the individual’s hearing aid. This is especially helpful where acoustics, distance, reverberation, and competing noise can interfere or create a poor signal-to-noise ratio. Examples of “looped” settings might include churches, theaters, arenas, drive-thru’s, or taxis. LOOP systems are prevalent in Europe. In the US, the Capital building has this technology, NYC taxis, and many places in Michigan including airports and the Breslin center. Dr. David Myers is a strong advocate for LOOP system technology.

T-coils do occupy space within the hearing aid and are not available in small devices. When you purchase hearing aids or replace your current set, discuss the pros and cons of T-coils with your audiologist. If you would like more information about how your home could be “looped” or know of a public place you frequent that could benefit from this technology, please contact us here.

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