Best TV Listening Aids for 
the Hearing Impaired

Best TV Listening Aids for the Hearing Impaired

Knowing what type of TV listening device is right for you can depend on many factors. It’s essential to assess your level of hearing loss, your living space, as well as how much you’re willing to spend. In addition, convenience and comfort should not be overlooked – especially as you age in place. Features that are beneficial for seniors and the hearing impaired include customizable volume control, voice clarifying technology, ergonomic design, and easily rechargeable batteries. You also need to know if your TV has analog or digital connectivity, and if you need a hearing aid compatible listening device.

To help make your decision easier, we’ve identified key features and capabilities to consider and selected some of the best options available.

TV LISTENING AIDS WE REVIEWED:

• Best Wireless TV Headphones – AudioRange ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones
• Best for Noise Reduction – Avantree HT280 Wireless Wireless TV Headphones
• Best Portable Speaker – AudioRange SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker
• Best for Hearing Aids Wearers – Sennheiser Set 840-S Assistive Listening System
• Best for Sensitive Ears – Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker
• Best Over-Ear Headphones – AudioRange OTE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones
• Best for Analog TVs – TV Ears Original
• Best on a Budget – Simolio Long-Distance Wireless TV Headphones

Watching TV with Hearing Aids

Did you know that you can also use certain hearing aids as a listening aid while watching TV?  Hearing aids typically work by reducing background noises so you can focus on the sounds you want to hear, in this case the TV volume and audio from shows and movies. Various hearing aids offer advanced features like Bluetooth technology that allow you to connect to any compatible device.

This means that when you connect your hearing aids to the TV or speakers, you can stream the TV audio right to your hearing aids. With improved sound quality, you won’t have to strain to hear what’s on the screen. Using your hearing aids as a TV listening aid is also more convenient than purchasing a separate device. Hearing aids are highly customizable to your own hearing needs, so it is important to take a hearing test or follow up with your audiologist to find the best fit.

See our full Best Hearing Aids Review.

If you’re looking for a lightweight pair of TV headphones that deliver clear and continuous sound, AudioRange’s ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones are our top pick. Although not compatible with hearing aids, the ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones provide ample volume and balanced sound without lags or latency issues. The headset’s built-in mic/sound amplifier allows you to easily have a conversation without removing your headset by automatically muting the TV and amplifying the surrounding sound.

Easy to set up and compatible with most TVs, the AudioRange ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones are fully rechargeable and have a transmission range of 100 feet. In addition to the base station, the ITE-1000 system has an additional charging dock making it convenient to recharge your headset from any location. Also available is the AudioRange ITE-1000 Duo, a dual wireless headset package allowing two people to use the system while maintaining independent volume control.

If you struggle to hear dialogue on TV, Avantree HT280 Wireless TV Headphones are an affordable option for a seamless audio experience with plenty of volume. The over-the-ear style headphones help to enhance voice clarity and reduce background noise with no audio delay. Featuring customizable volume 30% louder than comparable products on the market, the Avantree HT280 Wireless TV Headphones are a good solution for those with hearing impairment who are constantly adjusting the volume.

The comfortable, padded headphones are surprisingly lightweight compared to most over-the-ear style headsets making them easy for seniors to take on and off. The system is simple to set up right out of the box and easy to operate with no device pairing needed. With an impressive battery life up to 12 hours and a wireless range up to 100 feet, these are a great pair of headphones for daily use as you age in place.

If you wear hearing aids or find headphones to be uncomfortable no matter what brand or model you try, a wireless speaker is a good choice to hear TV sound more clearly. The AudioRange SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker is a cordless, fully rechargeable TV speaker that provides easily adjustable volume control wherever you are. It’s lightweight and compact design make it easy to transport and position in a direction that is best for you to hear. The SPK-1000 is easy to place by your favorite chair, by your bed, or in the kitchen and features a built-in FM radio.

AudioRange’s SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker has a 100-foot range and can last up to ten hours on a single charge so you’ll never have to worry about the sound dropping out during the middle of your favorite show. It also automatically goes into standby mode when it’s not in use to conserve battery power so you won’t unknowingly be left with a battery that needs to be recharged when you’re ready to enjoy TV.

Especially suited for those who wear hearing aids, Sennheiser’s Set 840-S is an RF stereo assistive listening system that delivers a clear sound and ample volume. Easy to use with your existing TV’s audio, the Set 840-S receiver can transmit sound directly to telecoil-enabled hearing aids using induction loop technology. You can also transmit your TV’s audio to your headphones using the lightweight clip-on receiver.

Sennheiser’s Set 840-S system has an impressive radio transmission range of up to 100 feet, allowing you to receive high-quality sound even if you move to the next room or outside. The wireless assistive listening system incorporates built-in voice enhancement technology, preset audio adjustment levels for different types of hearing loss. It allows you to adjust the volume for each ear independently.

Unlike traditional headphones, the Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker amplifies sound near the ear to produce precise, 3D stereo sound. The wearable wireless speaker takes the pressure off your head and ears, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive ears. The Avantree Torus neckband also offers in-ear sound thanks to the built-in retractable earbuds, which are convenient if you don’t want to disturb others around you or need to take a personal phone call.

The Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker is an easy-to-use amplifier that works with all Bluetooth-enabled devices and utilizes low latency technology to ensure no audio lag. It is a good option for those with hearing impairment looking for full TV sound but find wearing headphones uncomfortable.

If you prefer over-the-ear style headphones that have a traditional headband with ear pads that cover your entire ear or you wear hearing aids, we recommend AudioRange’s OTE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones. The OTE-1000 has a lightweight and durable headset that’s easy to adjust and cushioned ear pads that fit securely without feeling too tight or constricting. The headset’s ergonomic design makes it easy to find the right position without any fuss which is beneficial for seniors with dexterity issues who may find it difficult to manipulate the ear tips of in-ear headphones.

AudioRange’s OTE-1000’s produce clear and balanced sound and are well suited for extended wear. The cushioned ear pads fit comfortably around the ear making them more comfortable than most in-ear headphones which tend to hurt after prolonged use.The over-the ear style helps to reduce background noise and can be worn with hearing aids. Seniors will appreciate the product’s ease of use and features for added convenience. Compatible with nearly all TVs and streaming devices, the AudioRange OTE-1000 system is easy to set up right out of the box. The OTE-1000 headphone system has a fully rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours and has a 100 foot wireless range allowing you to move freely while still listening to your TV.

TV Ears is well known for headphones designed specifically for improving TV hearing. TV Ears Original is an affordable voice clarifying headset system design specifically for use with Analog devices, so it’s important to note it will not work with digital or Smart TVs. It is a good choice for many seniors looking for a simple solution to hear TV more clearly. TV Ears Original has twice the maximum volume compared to other headphones because they are classified as an Assistive Listening Device for hearing impaired individuals. The brand’s voice clarifying circuitry makes dialog easier to understand while maintaining volume control separate from your TV’s sound.

There are no complicated settings or pairing needed to use the TV Ears Original system. Simply plug in the device, let it fully charge, and it is ready to use. You can easily adjust the volume and mute sound via the headset so TV can be enjoyed with others or alone. The headphones are lightweight, and easy to take on and off with an ergonomic ideal for seniors. They can conveniently be worn around the house to listen to the TV while doing other tasks although the rechargeable batteries only last 4-6 hours which is less than most TV headphones.

Simolio’s Long-Distance Wireless TV Headphones offer seniors a solid option for voice clarifying headphones at a reasonable price. The wireless headset system uses 2.4GHz technology which helps ensure a long range up to 100 feet and consistent, lag-free sound. Simolio’s Wireless TV Headphones deliver better sound quality than expected for the price. The voice highlighting technology and volume control settings are well suited for anyone who struggles to hear dialogue on TV. You can customize your sound via balance and tone controls while maintaining a healthy volume level. The balance control is specifically designed for seniors with different levels of hearing loss in the left and right ears.

The built-in microphone enables you to hear people talking nearby without taking off the headphones by simply pressing the personal sound amplifier button located on the headset. The adjustable headset is made with durable materials and fitted with memory foam eartips plus ear loops for a secure fit, although the headset’s under-chin design puts pressure on ears, which can be uncomfortable. The plug and play system is easy to set-up and use with no pairing required. A spare battery is always in the base, charged and ready so you don’t have to worry about your headphones not having power when you want to watch TV.

What to Consider When Buying Devices for TV Listening for the Hearing Impaired

Television listening for the hearing impaired is more natural when you choose the right hearing aids for TV. Comfort and clarity rate are at the top of the criteria. There are several considerations to explore to ensure that your final choice meets all of your needs.

Ease Of Use

There are numerous device styles, so consider which is the easiest to use. For example, those wanting to move around easily might consider a slip-on or in-ear device. If you need more significant noise reduction, headphones are typically the superior choice. The easier the device is to use, the more it contributes to greater independence for seniors.

Added Features

Some hearing devices come with different added features that add to their convenience. One feature to look for is programmable settings that allow you to preset specific volume levels that you prefer for different types of televisions and movies. Another feature is the ability to cancel background noises. This option allows for more natural listening. The sounds and voices around you when you are using the device will typically be more precise. Some devices make it possible to set a different volume level for each ear. If your hearing loss is different in both ears, this can be an excellent feature.

Design

Regarding the design, it is imperative to consider the ergonomics and the overall style of the aid. Better ergonomics make it easier for seniors to use the product. For example, look at the volume control and how easy it is to replace the batteries. It is also crucial to consider the ease with which the device goes in or around the ears.

Living Space

It’s essential to consider your living space and social situation when looking for a TV listening device. Consider the environment you watch TV in usually. For example, are you in a shared environment, such as an assisted living home community room, or are you in a private space in a room or at home? Certain features, such as easy volume control and noise-canceling, become more critical in a noisier environment.

Battery Life

Some of these devices have rechargeable batteries, so keeping them at an optimal charge and ready for use is easy. Others require you to replace the batteries. Those with rechargeable batteries typically have lithium-ion batteries. These tend to have a long life, reducing the need to purchase new ones often. No matter which type you opt for, reliable battery life is crucial. Ideally, you want to find an aid that provides at least 48 hours of hearing amplification before recharging is necessary.

Maintenance

TV listening devices require some maintenance to ensure the best performance. Headphones and ear devices typically wipe off with an alcohol pad to help reduce residue build up. Speakers should be easy to wipe off with a dry cloth. For example, a microfiber cloth that traps dust and removes it. An aerosol can of air is also a fast way to remove dust from crevices. There is a lot to explore when considering hearing aids for TV. Use this information and consider your personal preferences when deciding on the best TV listening devices for you.