As the population ages, it is becoming increasingly important for telephones to be able to accommodate those with certain disabilities. Of the five total senses, hearing is one of the most common to be negatively affected by the aging process among senior citizens. Hearing problems can make communication impossible and unsafe for those who live alone. Luckily, there are phones with increased sound, bigger buttons and easy to program features for making phone calls.
So what do these telephones for people with hearing problems look like? Many of these phones that are intended for use among those with hearing difficulties, often appear very different than other standard telephones. Increased volume control, a flashing ringing indicator, and even larger buttons on the phone itself all help to alleviate some of the problems associated with telephone use among those with hearing difficulties. Sometimes known as handicap phones, these telephones can help those with both hearing and vision problems as well, because of their features. The bigger buttons serve two purposes: they help those with vision difficulties to see the buttons, and they also help those who may have arthritis or may otherwise be disabled and unable to physically press the smaller buttons that are more commonly associated with standardized telephones.
The flashing ringing indicator helps people actually see the phone calls coming through as well as hearing the ringing from the phone itself. In the event that someone suffers from an extreme hearing loss or is deaf, the flashing light helps to notify him or her of an incoming call. Often times, the flashing light will also blink when a voicemail is either received or one is waiting to be reviewed. They can then ask someone with hearing to relay the message in sign language.
Recommended Telephones
These special phones can typically be purchased anywhere traditional phones are also sold. Due to the nature of the product, they can be purchased from drugstores, specialized stores or on the internet. The cost of these phones are slightly costlier than those of traditional phones but the benefits outweigh the costs. Having the ability to be independent and listen to calls makes these phones a necessity. Be sure to look for one that meets your needs.
- Amplified Sound Cordless Phones – These phones are perfect for someone with hearing loss. Incoming calls can sound up to 50 decibels while outgoing talks can be adjusted up to 15 decibels. Others will be able to hear you very clearly. Easy to program phone numbers for quick calling. The volume and tone are also easy to adjust for your preferred loudness.
- Photo Phones With Amplified Sound – Has large buttons that are easy to use. Simply pick up the telephone receiver, press the photo of the person you want to call and wait for the other person to start talking. A red light also alerts person of incoming telephone call.
Large Button Cell Phones – Cell phones have small buttons that make it hard to make calls. But the dial pads on these large button cell phones are large and visible. They are also louder than normal cell phones.- One Touch Picture Telephones – Have up to 10 photos of recognizable people you want to instantly speed dial and call. No more fumbling for address books or remembering telephone numbers. It also has a flashing ringer and the sound can be amplified up to 50db.
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