Hearing Better
Last reviewed 29 September 2026.
At a glance
- Noise, distance and echo make speech hard to follow, even with good hearing aids.
- Skills, training and a wireless microphone each help in a different way.
- A well-verified fitting is the base for all of them.
Learn communication skills
Communication skills help you hear better, especially in noise. The 5 Keys program teaches simple practical habits. You learn where to sit, how to set up a room and what to ask the speaker to do. Ask us for the simple handouts or the 5 Keys book. Our Resources page explains how to enroll.
Train your listening
Auditory training is like physical therapy for listening. LACE and clEAR are programs you do at home. They practice hearing speech in noise, fast speech and competing voices. Hearing aids deliver sound. Training helps your brain use it. Ask us how to get started.
Use a wireless microphone
A wireless microphone is worn or placed close to the speaker. It sends a clearer voice signal directly to your hearing aids. Roger microphones from Phonak are one example. This helps when noise, distance or echo get in the way. Some Phonak microphones work with other hearing aid brands, so ask us what fits yours.
Make sure your hearing aids are set correctly
A good fitting matters. Real-ear measurement checks that your hearing aids deliver the right sound to your ears. Read what real-ear measurement is. If you struggle in noise, we can also check your settings and programs.
Simple habits that help
Choose a seat with your back to a wall. Face the person you want to hear. Ask for a quieter table. Tell people you have hearing loss. These habits cost nothing and help in any room.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered
Why do I hear worse in restaurants?
Background noise covers speech. Your brain must work harder to sort voices from noise. Hearing loss makes that harder, and hearing aids only partly solve it.
Does a wireless microphone replace my hearing aids?
No. It works with your hearing aids. It sends the speaker's voice straight to them.
How long does listening training take?
It depends on the program. We will explain the time each one needs when you enroll.