A new piece of technology can help senior citizens who are hearing-impaired live a more independent lifestyle. New York City subways have been outfitted with "hearing loops" in all of their information booths, AARP.com reports.
A hearing loop works similarly to wireless internet, and it delivers sound directly into a copper wire that is found in most hearing aids today.
"Hearing loops increase access for the hard of hearing in public venues like churches, concert halls, theaters and even airports where poor acoustics sometimes prevent understanding even for people with normal hearing," audiologist Juliette Sterkens told the news source.
According to the news provider, the technology has been popular in Europe for decade, but is just making its way to the United States.
It can also be installed in private residences as well for a relatively low cost.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) states that 28 million Americans suffer from some form of hearing impairment. That number is especially high in the elderly, with one-third of the population between 65 and 74 having hearing problems, and about half of those over 85 reporting trouble hearing.
© Copyright
