Hearing Aids and Noisy Distractions

You may have noticed that folks who wear hearing aids are more easily distracted by noise than those not wearing them. I know, it sounds odd...but it's true. Here is a simple explanation for why hearing aid users are sensitive to loud noises. As you read this, I want you to be aware I am not talking about hyperacusis. You can read all about it here. Back to the simple explanation...

While hearing aid clarity has much improved over the years, hearing aids still amplify the sounds we hear. You may not believe me, but I can usually tell you the instant the HVAC comes on in the room, and it's all I hear from that point on. If we are in the middle of a conversation, then that's just plain annoying because I see the person's mouth moving, but all I hear is that stinking HVAC.

In the classroom, if you notice a hearing aid user distracted, consider what noises are currently audible and eliminate them as best you can.