Assistive Listening Device
Also written as: ALD — Assistive Listening Device
Any technology beyond a conventional hearing aid that is designed to improve access to sound in specific listening situations, such as loop systems, personal amplifiers, and captioned telephones.
Full Definition
An assistive listening device (ALD) is an umbrella term encompassing a broad range of technologies that supplement or replace hearing aids by improving the audibility of a target signal in a particular environment. Examples include personal FM systems, infrared listening systems, amplified telephones, alerting devices, and visual display systems. Editors should note that ALDs are categorised separately from hearing aids in regulatory and clinical contexts, and the two should not be used interchangeably. The term is sometimes used synonymously with 'assistive hearing technology' (AHT), though AHT is a newer and broader label. In legal and accessibility contexts, ALDs may carry specific definitions under disability legislation.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. Note that 'assistive hearing technology (AHT)' is an emerging broader term; verify which the author intends, particularly in policy or legal documents.
In Context
- "The rehabilitation plan included counselling on assistive listening devices for use in the workplace and during television viewing." — Aural rehabilitation programme plan
- "The manuscript conflated 'hearing aid' and 'assistive listening device'; these are distinct categories requiring separate discussion." — Editorial annotation