ALD

An Assistive Listening Device (ALD) is any device that helps you overcome your hearing loss. Usually the term ALD is applied to personal devices that transmit, process, or amplify sound, but usually not used to refer to hearing aids. Term may also refer to alerting devices.

ALDs bring distant sounds directly into your ear and can eliminate background noise. Some people incorrectly believe that ALDs are only for people with very serious hearing losses. It’s true that ALDs can be a big help for them, but it’s also true that ALDs can help people with milder losses.

Most ALDs help make listening easier, but some also help you stay connected to what is going on around you and improve your safety. These alerting devices rely on amplified sounds, visual cues and even vibrations to alert you to sounds in your environment. Some examples of alerting devices include vibrating alarm clocks to help you start your day on time, doorbell alerts that use flashing lights to let you know a visitor is at your door, vibrating and flashing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.