Your telephone can be equipped with an amplifier. Simply adjust the amplifier built into the phone handle to a sound level that's comfortable for you. Portable amplifiers, which slip over most telephone receivers, are also available. With a text telephone (called a TTY or TDD), you can "talk" to another TTY by typing your conversation. Messages from both parties are shown in writing on the lighted display screen. These devices may be available to you without charge through your local telephone company.  

If you have difficulty hearing certain sounds in your home, alerting devices - flashing lights, loud bells, or vibrators - can be installed. These devices are activated by the sound of a telephone, doorbell, alarm clock, smoke alarm, or crying baby.  

Many theaters, concert halls, and meeting rooms are being equipped with group listening systems. These systems can deliver quality sound to individual listeners in a large group setting.

Listening can be difficult in a noisy place, such as a restaurant or car. With a one-to-one personal communicator, your companion's voice can be amplified well above the background noise level.