When you consider making public places accessible for individuals with disabilities, the obvious first image that comes to mind are modifications for wheelchairs. But what about accessibility for people with hearing loss? That is where hearing loops come in. Venues with hearing loops provide much clearer speech and sound directly to the telecoils inside hearing aids.. Putting in a hearing loop is a rather inexpensive enhancement which can bring in new visitors and customers for the venue. Oftentimes the owners of the venue simply aren’t aware of how much a hearing loop might help. With a little bit of time and effort you may be able to get them to install one.
Churches and places of worship. While many places of worship are fitted with hearing amplifiers, many are not compatible or not convenient and there are many places without them at all. If this is applicable to your favorite worship space, bring it to the attention of the leadership and be sure to mention how a hearing loop will make hearing sermons much easier for their patrons. You might try to gain popular support for the idea by submitting an article to the website or newsletter of the church.
Theaters, auditoriums and other public venues. The guidelines for the Americans for Disabilities Act require that assembly areas have a method of audio amplification for their visitors and this requirement is filled with the installation of a hearing loop. Contact the general manager of the venue and ask for a meeting. Be prepared to explain the costs involved as well as the benefits to the patrons and to the venue. For example, these places will see an increase in attendance because people with hearing challenges will be able to participate.
Be prepared to make your case. No matter how you choose to bring up the matter, create understanding by sharing facts, promoting awareness for the need and garnering understanding. Define hearing loop, its function and costs. Explain the necessity and convenience of hearing loops for you and others. Explain to them the benefits of their increased business. And most importantly, be a friendly and helpful resource for your local community.