Understanding Hearing Loss in the UK
Around 12 million adults in the UK have some degree of hearing loss, and this rises sharply with age. By 70, around 70% of people have measurable hearing loss. While NHS hearing aids are the gold standard for diagnosed hearing loss, many people either wait years before seeking help or need additional devices to assist in specific situations like watching TV, using the phone, or hearing the doorbell. Hearing amplifiers and assistive listening devices bridge this gap.
NHS Hearing Aids vs Personal Amplifiers
NHS hearing aids are prescription medical devices, professionally fitted and calibrated to your specific hearing loss pattern. They are provided free of charge, including batteries and servicing. Personal sound amplifiers (PSAPs), on the other hand, are over-the-counter devices that amplify all sounds equally. They are not a substitute for hearing aids but can be useful for mild hearing difficulty or while waiting for an NHS appointment. PSAPs cost from £20-200, while private hearing aids range from £500-3,000+ per ear.
TV Listening Devices
One of the most common complaints is struggling to hear the TV without turning the volume up to levels that bother others. TV listeners solve this by sending the TV audio directly to a headset worn by the listener. Wireless TV headphones (from £30-80) connect via a base station plugged into the TV and let you set your own volume independently. TV loop systems work with hearing aids that have a telecoil (T-setting), sending TV audio directly through the hearing aid. The TV Ears system and Geemarc CL7370 are popular UK options.
Amplified Telephones
Standard telephones can be difficult if you have hearing loss. Amplified phones boost the incoming voice volume by 30-60dB (compared to the standard 10-15dB). Features to look for include adjustable tone control (boosting high-frequency sounds where most hearing loss occurs), extra-loud ringtones up to 90dB, flashing ring indicators, and hearing aid compatibility. Brands like Geemarc, BT, and Doro specialise in amplified phones. Prices range from £30-100.
Alerting Devices
Missing the doorbell, phone, smoke alarm, or alarm clock is a safety concern. Alerting systems use extra-loud sounds, flashing lights, or vibrating pads to ensure you notice important alerts. A vibrating alarm clock pad (placed under your pillow) costs around £15-30. Flashing doorbell systems cost £20-50. Vibrating smoke alarm pads can be life-saving and are available from local fire services free of charge in many areas, so contact your local fire and rescue service to ask.
Loop Systems for the Home
A hearing loop (or induction loop) is a wire system that creates a magnetic field picked up by the telecoil in a hearing aid. Portable loop systems for home use cost £80-200 and can be placed around a chair or room, sending TV, music, or conversation audio directly to your hearing aid with no background noise. Many public venues in the UK are legally required to have loop systems installed under the Equality Act 2010.
Getting Help on the NHS
If you suspect hearing loss, start with your GP who can check for common causes (like earwax) and refer you to NHS audiology. NHS hearing aids are digital, behind-the-ear models provided free with free batteries and maintenance. Waiting times vary but are typically 6-18 weeks. For assistive devices, ask your audiology department about equipment demonstrations, or contact Action on Hearing Loss (now RNID) for advice on the best devices for your situation.