Nearly 15% of American adults have reported some trouble hearing. This may make enjoying audio content like podcasts and audiobooks seem impossible.
The good news? There are simple ways for both content creators and listeners to make audio content more inclusive and enjoyable for people with hearing loss.
Creators and Audio Content
Creators of audio content don’t need to overcomplicate their materials to make them available to people with hearing loss. Just a few thoughtful tweaks can make the podcast or audiobook easier to follow:
- Add visual support: Consider uploading your content to YouTube or a similar platform and include captions or subtitles. This gives people a visual aid while they listen.
- Speak clearly and at a consistent pace: Rushing through sentences or talking over others can make it harder for anyone to understand, especially those with hearing aids.
- Use high-quality equipment: Quality microphones and sound editing tools can help produce clearer audio that’s easier to hear and understand.
Audio Content for Listeners
If you or someone you know wears hearing aids, there’s good news: modern devices can connect directly to phones, tablets and even laptops. Some people aren’t aware that assistive listening devices can also enhance clarity by streaming audio right into their hearing aids or through simple accessories.
To make the most of listening time, try these strategies:
- Transcripts: Many podcasts now offer written versions so you can read along or catch up on anything you missed.
- Captions and subtitles: If you’re watching a podcast or audiobook online, check for caption options to read along.
- Show notes: These summaries can help you follow along, even if parts of the audio are difficult to hear.
- Social media extras: Follow your favorite shows or authors online for recaps, behind-the-scenes info and bonus content that reinforces what you hear.
- Direct streaming with hearing aids: Many hearing aids can connect directly to digital devices, making it easier to tune in from anywhere, even while walking through Harbor Park.
- Try assistive tech: Personal amplifiers and loop systems can help bridge the gap between your ears and your device.
- Use captioning apps: Some platforms and third-party apps can turn speech into text in real-time, offering an instant transcript as you listen.
Don’t let hearing challenges keep you from enjoying your favorite stories and voices. With a bit of support and the right tools, audio content can still be an enjoyable hobby.
If you or someone in your family has been experiencing hearing loss, it might be time to get checked out. Schedule a hearing test today with Gary D. Schwartzberg, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology to keep your connection to the world around you strong and clear.