Acceptance of the wireless microphone as a hearing aid accessory for adults

SUMMARY We are on the cusp of a wireless revolu-tion. When the technology meets theexpectation, we will have reached a tippingpoint and change will occur quickly. Thecombination of generation effects, systemicchanges, component miniaturization, anddevelopments in low-cost consumer elec-tronics will all contribute to furtheringadult acceptance of the wireless micro-phone as a hearing aid accessory. As discussed in this ar ticle, the primar ysub-goals to be met in order to improveACCESS to sound via wireless micro-phones include: ❖ Awareness by hearing aid users, the dis-pensing community, and the public atlarge that this technology exists and ishighly effective ❖ Candidacy requirements that are clearlyestablished ❖ Cost reduction ❖ Ease of use in both private applicationsand public places ❖ Smart design to improve cosmetics,reduce intrusiveness, and simplify oper-ation ❖ Support and counseling before, dur-ing, and after the fitting/purchase. David Fabry , PhD, was formerly Vice-President of Professional Relations and Education at Phonak HearingSystems,Warrenville,IL.Drs