Different studies indicate that many people experience impaired hearing as they age. It is also estimated that a substantial portion of the population is living with hearing loss at different ages. The main challenge is that individuals with hearing problems require accommodation with special services designed to cater to their needs.
Hearing problems often affect a person’s life in many ways. However, the good news is that there are many ways that homeowners can adopt to improve their properties so that individuals with hearing problems can also enjoy life to the fullest. Read on to learn more about different home features that are just perfect for people with hearing problems.
Alert Lights
When you are hearing impaired, it does not necessarily mean that all other senses are impaired. You can use different techniques with visual options to help you react to something in real-time. You can install bright flashing lights on your mobile or landline phone so that it can activate when the device receives a text message or call. You can also install a flashlight on your door so that you know when there is a visitor outside.
However, the drawback of this system is that someone must be within the range of the light to see any activity outside. A doorbell is effective, but the sound may not be loud enough for someone with hearing problems. The homeowner can choose a system that triggers a light or uses loud vibration when someone knocks. Smart door alarms can also combine different security features that can benefit individuals with hearing problems.
Sound Amplifiers
Hearing aids are often costly, and few people can afford them. However, there are alternative solutions that can be just as beneficial. The expert technicians from SereneInnovations.com explain that there is assistive listening technology designed to help people with hearing impairments. A sound amplifier can make your life easier as this device can help you stay connected with your loved ones from different places across the globe. You can choose a phone amplifier with a loud ringer to improve hearing quality.
A sound amplifier can also go along with a home alert system that helps you to stay safe at home. This system keeps you connected to your environment, and it alerts you about any movement outside. It can warn you of impending danger so that you can take preventive action if possible.
Television Listening System
Entertainment is an integral part of our social life, and television is one of the most popular forms of home entertainment. If you or your loved one suffers from hearing problems, it is essential to consider getting a TV listening system. The main advantage of this system is that it does not cause blaring volume that can disturb others. This technology allows the affected person to enjoy television without affecting the neighbors or other people within the same house.
Smart Appliances
With the constant advancement in technology, homeowners can also consider smart appliances that use artificial intelligence. For instance, you can consider technology that lets you know about the status of the appliance via texts. If you leave it on by mistake, then the technology alerts you to turn it off. Some devices can be customized to suit the needs of people with hearing problems. The other notable aspect of smart appliances is that they connect to the Wi-Fi at home and provide information about the status of different tasks. You can check the temperature of the fridge or stove from your smartphone, and it can alert you with a message.
Color Schemes and Lighting
Many hard of hearing people prefer indoor spaces with bright lighting to communicate with sign language easily. Bright colors are also helpful since they help people with hearing problems to see clearly. When painting a home for the hearing impaired, you must choose colors that are not disruptive since they can impact how they view different things.
Home Design
There are also other elements that you can consider in your home design to ensure that you can accommodate the needs of deaf and hard of hearing people. Homeowners need to take into account the following factors:
- Wide hallways to allow two people to walk side-by-side while communicating in sign language.
- The lower ceiling in rooms to prevent reverberation of sound that makes it difficult to communicate. Acoustic tiles can also absorb sound, which makes it ideal for communicating inside.
- Flooring- using carpets that block sound from escaping or creating reverberations that affect hearing aids.
- Walls-install insulation that can absorb sound and make communication easier.
Hearing problems are common, and they can affect anyone. However, the good news is that there are various alternatives that homeowners can consider to help resolve some of the challenges. From assistive listening, flashlight alert, vibration technology, and improved home design, homeowners can implement various options to cater to the needs of the hearing impaired.