Assistive Listening Devices (ALD)

Icons of ALD device examples and the symbol of ear listening.

General Information

Assistive Listening Devices and Systems (ALDs) improve hearing by reducing background noise and sending sound directly to the listener through FM, induction loop, or infrared technology.

Types of Assistive Listening Devices and Systems:

  • FM systems: Utilize radio frequencies to transmit sound to a receiver. Common in classrooms and meetings.

  • Induction loop systems: Send sound via electromagnetic signals directly to hearing aids with a telecoil (T-coil). Common in theaters, airports, and houses of worship.

  • Infrared systems: Use light waves to transmit sound to receivers. Often used in courtrooms or theaters where privacy is important.

Key Benefits:

  • Clearer speech understanding in noisy environments.

  • Reduces the effects of the distance between the speaker and the listener.

  • Works with hearing aids, cochlear implants, or headsets.

  • Expands access in schools, workplaces, and community spaces.

Examples of Use:

  • A student using an FM system in a classroom.

  • A theater-goer switching hearing aids to T-coil mode.

  • A courtroom providing infrared receivers for participants.

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