Tips for Buying a Stuttering Hearing Aid

 

There are several options for stuttering hearing aids. Several ear devices have been on the market for years and come in different price ranges. Electronic aids, which change the voice pitch and play noise, have also been shown to improve speech. The effectiveness of these devices may vary, however, and the Stuttering Foundation is working to gather more data about their long-term effectiveness. If you are considering purchasing a stuttering hearing aid, here are some tips to keep in mind.

 

One option is a wearable device, which emulates the choral effect, which occurs when a person speaks to a group. This small, stand-alone device is perfect for private meetings, school settings, and even business meetings. You can even use it at home with a small, daily hearing aid. The most common features of a stuttering device are:

 

Another option is a portable device called an altered auditory feedback (DAF) device, which introduces a delay into speech to help induce fluency. While these devices look like hearing aids, the multi-component devices come with earphones and boxes. The wireless versions may not be as noticeable as the former. Some manufacturers even offer a try-before-you-buy option. If you're not sure what type you need, it's worth trying out a few devices before making a final decision.

 

Another option to consider is the Fluency Enhancer, an iPod-sized anti-stuttering device that is designed for use with stuttering therapy. This anti-stuttering device uses octave-scale FAF pitch-shifting. Fluency Enhancer uses a microphone that picks up the vibrations in vocal folds and then produces audio signals that help the stutterer produce speech faster. It also features white noise masking and a metronome.

 

If you are unsure of the type of stuttering hearing aid that is right for you, consider consulting an expert. The Stuttering Foundation of America, a recognized authority on stuttering, offers information on various portable devices. Its website even has a chat room where you can ask questions and get answers from others who have tried it. It may be time to try one of these hearing aids to solve your stuttering problem.

 

There are a number of important considerations for choosing a stuttering hearing aid. Considering the severity of your condition, you must determine whether you need to use it for every situation. Stuttering can occur in different situations and on different days. Certain situations may make the symptoms worse. For example, talking in a sing-song pattern, being tired, or talking in public may increase stuttering symptoms.