Hearing loss is very common and can be caused by disease, hereditary factors, accidents like head injuries, or exposure to loud noise. The most common reason for hearing loss, however, is the natural ageing process.
Hearing loss can significantly impact communication and interactions with family, friends and the wider community. As a result, many people who experience hearing loss report that their enjoyment and quality of life have been significantly impacted.
The challenges of hearing loss
Hearing loss often requires learning a variety of new skills. It also requires access to a wide range of assistive technology. This may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices and assistive listening systems available in public facilities, including but not limited to, cinemas, places of worship, shopping centres, universities and transport terminals.
It is now typical for these types of public places to require assistive technology, most often in the form of varying types of ‘hearing augmentation’. However, not every section of these public spaces is required to have such accessibility features. While the Deemed-to-Satisfy coverage requirements for many of these floor spaces jumped from 15% to 95%, many of those who suffer from hearing loss still experience day-to-day challenges in public places.
Living with hearing loss
Sally, a dear friend who retired several years ago to spend more time with her granddaughter, shared what it is really like living with hearing loss:
‘Before experiencing hearing loss, I could really appreciate the need for good acoustics in music theatres, but I took little notice of other venues and places, like cafes, cinemas, shops or other shared public spaces.
I now experience difficulties at casual meetings, gatherings and even small group get-togethers. This also extends to the school classroom of my nine-year-old granddaughter – even when the children are quiet! There are echoes, fans and background noises that add to all the difficulties in hearing.
I still really enjoy classical music and opera, thankfully due to the good acoustics of a purpose-built venue creating wonderful memories and emotions. However, I now miss out on the pre-performance talks and the sociability that I used to enjoy so much’.
Sally is not alone in experiencing increased isolation in the face of hearing loss. As Sally notes, hearing loss extends beyond the physical element – it also affects how she can actively participate within her community and the events she dearly loves.
Defining ‘hearing augmentation’
As accessibility consultants, our expert knowledge extends to the needs of those who are deaf or affected by hearing loss This means we have to be aware of the updates to the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), as they refer to ‘hearing augmentation’ services and systems.
Australian Standard AS 1428.5 – 2010, Design for Access and Mobility, Part 5: Communication for People Who are Deaf or Hearing Impaired, defines ‘hearing augmentation’ as:
‘The communication of information for people who are deaf or hearing impaired by using a combination of audio, visual, and tactile means’.
Hearing augmentation can come in many shapes and forms. Assistive listening systems (ALSs), flashing lights, vibrating alert systems, telephone typewriters (TTYs) and sign language are all examples of hearing augmentation.
There are also a number of hearing augmentation systems available for those who are deaf or experience hearing loss. The three major types of assistive listening systems currently in use and required by the National Construction Code (NCC) are hearing loop systems, FM systems and infrared (IR) systems.
Not every hearing augmentation will suit every public space that requires such features. Deciding on which system to use will often depend on a range of factors, including the preference of likely users, confidentiality implications, the size and use of the space, external interferences and the building materials used.
For this reason, it is best to consult closely with accessibility consultants in order to determine which hearing augmentation solution is most suitable for an individual room, space or project.
Amplifying good communication
Good-quality communication systems are so important. The effects of hearing loss and associated conditions can significantly impact an individual’s lifestyle. No one solution will suit all people with hearing loss. At a minimum, attention should be given to providing appropriate acoustic environments that incorporate well-designed amplification and assistive listening systems.