Personal Amplification Devices

Personal amplification devices provide access to communication in one-on-one settings. These devices increase the overall volume, but do not match the individual’s hearing loss prescription. Personal amplification can be used in two ways:

1. At home (provided by consumer)
2. As an ADA public accommodation (provided by the facility). Patients with hearing loss can be hesitant to ask for accommodations, and these accommodations are rarely offered without requests. These can provide “auxiliary aids and services” under Effective Communication with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• • Healthcare. The medical provider must have the necessary equipment on hand, although sometimes the patient may bring their own personal equipment. It is imperative that healthcare professionals recognize the high prevalence of hearing loss in all populations and proactively offer services that enable patients with hearing loss to understand the critical information communicated by healthcare professionals.
  • Legal settings. These devices can help during client visits and other one-on-one settings.

Below are some technological solutions for communicating with people with hearing loss.