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Assistive Listening Devices for Watching Television

There are several choices to assist people while watching television.

Closed Captions

Closed captions are words displayed on the television screen that describe the audio portion of the program.  The viewer can read everything that is being said during the programs and commercials.  All TVs manufactured after July 1993 which are 13" or larger have a closed caption decoder in them.  Simply turn on the captioning by using the remote control.  For those who have an older TV, it is typically more economical to purchase a new TV than it is to purchase an external closed caption decoder.  Closed caption decoders often have compatibility problems and need either a VCR or satellite in order to work.

 
Advantages:

  • Closed captioning is in most TVs so there is no additional cost.
  • It is easy to use because there are no headsets or battery packs.

Disadvantages:

  • One must "read" instead of listen to the show.  Becoming comfortable with this may be difficult.
  • It can be a challenge for those with vision or literacy problems.

Small Area Infrared


This system plugs into the TV headset jack and sends a beam of light to an individualized receiver (headset with earphones) that the person wears.  The receivers have volume controls to allow the user to adjust as needed.  In this system, there is no cord running from the TV to the headset.

Advantages:

  • Small area infrared is relatively easy to use.
  • Systems are reasonably inexpensive.

 

 

Disadvantages:

  • This system works only in "line of sight."  If the person turns his or her head, he or she may hear static.
  • It can only be used inside for a limited range.
  • The transmitter must be plugged into an electrical outlet.
  • There may be compatibility problems with hearing aids.  It is possible to purchase a neck loop for use with a t-coil, but the person may have to take the hearing aid out if he does not have a t-coil, as feedback may result.
  • Most TVs will mute if you plug into the headset jack, which means that no one else can hear the TV at the same time.
  • There are limited headset designs.  Many infrared systems have headsets which hang down from the ears.  It is not possible to wear a hearing aid with this type of receiver.  In addition, many complain that it is uncomfortable to wear over long periods of time.
  • The receiver requires batteries which will need to be replaced or recharged as often as every 5-8 hours of use time.
  • This type of system is not very portable.  
     
 
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