ABSTRACT
While hearing aids (HAs) can be of great benefit, there remain some challenges of living with a hearing loss that cannot be met by HAs alone. A loop system works by picking up the sound source from a microphone or input from audio equipment. A transmitter equipped with a microphone is placed near the sound source, which wirelessly sends information to a receiver worn by the HA user. The signal is sent to an amplifier, which is connected to a loop of wire usually around the room perimeter. Deaf associations are traditionally run by and for culturally deaf sign language users, but some also provide services for people with a hearing loss who communicate aurally. Deaf sign language users may use HAs and equipment to access warning sounds. Although some are accomplished lip-readers, auditory communication and voice may be rarely used. In some cases, written language skills may be limited as English would be a second language.
