Assistive Gizmo of the Month
Personal amplifiers can amplify the sound around an individual with mild hearing loss. They are not a cure-all solution for hearing loss that should be tested and evaluated by an audiologist. Instead, these devices are over-the-counter wearable devices that allow someone to hear conversations, the television, or sounds around them more clearly.
The Pocketalker 2.0 is one example of personal amplification devices. It has a rechargeable battery, volume and tone control, and can help to reduce some background noise. There is a microphone on the end of the Pocketalker 2.0 allowing the user to point the amplifier in the direction of the sound that would be amplified.
This column is brought to you by ATLA (Assistive Technology of Alaska), a nonprofit, statewide resource. ATLA does not endorse this product but shares information on the types of assistive technology that may benefit Alaskans. For more information or to arrange a free demonstration, visit http://www.atlaak.org or call 907-563-2599.
