A t-switch is a setting on a hearing aid that can be used with a hearing aid-compatible telephone, assistive listening device and audio loop system. When the hearing aid is switched to “T”, it activates the induction telecoil (the technical name for the T-switch), causing the hearing aid to pick up the magnetic field generated by the “hearing aid-compatible” telephone assistive device, or audio loop system being used. Basically, it is a small wire around the core which enables the sound. It is a very important part of a hearing aid. With a T-switch in the hearing aid there is no need for a michrophone. On older hearing aids, the user must press the T button to switch to the telecoil mode, or to switch to the program mode to use a combination of the micropfone and the telecoil. Some people uses aids with only microphone in it, some with a combination, some with only telecoil. There is no right way for all people, it is individual.
Recently, hearing aids have become more digital, and therefore no need in switching to different modes. The T-switch is an excellent way to her the television, telephone, in meetings, restaurants etc. Telecoils can provide that extra help you need to hear in many otherwise impossible situations. Ask your hearing health care provider about telecoils if you think they might help you. Don’t always count on your provider to suggest it.
