Waking up can be a challenging task, especially for individuals with severe hearing loss. Traditional alarm clocks or cell phone alarms may not be effective in waking them up. In addition, it is generally not advisable to wear a hearing aid to sleep. In this article, we will explore various alarm clock options specifically designed for individuals with different levels of hearing loss. We will also discuss makeshift alternatives for those with milder hearing loss.
Types of Alarms for Significant Hearing Loss
When it comes to significant hearing loss, there are four major types of alarms available:
- Booming loud alarms
- Bed shakers and vibrators
- Flashing lights or turn-on room lights
- Wrist iWatch or Fitbit to vibrate your wrist
The Top Recommended Alarm Clock For Deaf
After conducting extensive research and consulting with individuals who have severe to profound hearing loss, the Sonic Boom Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker (link to Amazon) emerged as the most popular choice. This alarm clock combines sound, vibration, and light to provide a comprehensive waking experience. With a maximum volume of 113dB, it can wake up even those with significant hearing loss. However, it is important to exercise caution and avoid prolonged exposure to such high sound levels, as it may lead to further hearing damage.
The Bed Shaker Feature of the Sonic Boom Alarm Clock is particularly impressive. The device comes with a disk that can be placed either under the mattress or under the pillow. The strong vibrations produced by the bed shaker are capable of waking up even deep sleepers. It operates in cycles of 2-3 seconds of shaking followed by a pause, and this pattern continues until the alarm is turned off or the snooze button is pressed.
Additionally, the alarm clock incorporates Red Flashing Lights that accompany the sound and vibration alerts. While these lights may not be the brightest, they serve as an additional aid for waking individuals with hearing loss.
Other notable features of the Sonic Boom Alarm Clock include:
- Ability to set two different alarms simultaneously, useful for morning wake-ups and nap reminders
- Customizable settings to enable or disable specific features (e.g., bed shaker and lights)
- Clear and easy-to-read display
- 9V battery backup in case of power outages
- Exceptional durability, as reported by long-term users
- Adjustable snooze duration (1-59 minutes)
- Choice between low-frequency and high-frequency beeps, with low-frequency being recommended for individuals with greater hearing loss in higher frequencies
Considering its overall functionality and positive user feedback, the Sonic Alert Sonic Boom Alarm Clock with A Bed Shaker stands out as the best alarm clock option for individuals with hearing loss.
Alternatives for Alarm Clocks For Deaf
While dedicated alarm clocks for the deaf offer optimal solutions, some individuals have found success with makeshift alternatives. These alternatives may be suitable for individuals with milder hearing loss or those seeking different waking methods. Here are a few examples:
- Fitbit or iWatch: Some individuals use Fitbits or iWatches, wearing them to bed to feel the vibrations for notifications. However, it’s important to note that this method may result in being woken up by every notification, which may not be ideal.
- Light-based Alarm Clocks: For those who prefer light-based alarms, the Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation and the Nature Bright Sun Bliss are popular options. These devices simulate a sunrise by gradually increasing the light intensity at a set time. However, they may not be the most suitable choice for individuals who take daytime naps or sleep after sunrise.
- Timer-connected Lights: Some individuals have connected timers to their room lights, enabling them to turn on automatically at a specific time, such as 6 am. However, this method may not be as effective as specialized alarm clocks and may not provide enough stimulation for individuals with significant hearing loss.
- Unconventional Methods: Certain individuals rely on creative alternatives, such as having a trained pet jump on their face at the desired wake-up time. While this method may work for some, it is not applicable to everyone.
Light Option Alarm Clocks
So above I mentioned that if you wanted a light alarm clock I recommended two devices. The top picks would have to be between the Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock with Sunrise Simulation or the Nature Bright Sun Bliss. They are both good at what they describe. It turns on a bright light to mimic the sunrise at a certain time of your choosing.
But to be perfectly truthful, I do not believe this is the best alarm clock for the deaf, because it does no good if you are asleep during the day. This is a downfall to consider if you take naps. If your room has a window in it and you are by chance sleeping after the sun is already up, this alarm is unlikely to wake you up. Yes, they do have a sound alarm as well but they are not loud enough for the hard of hearing. I think this device is instead intended for normal-hearing individuals that just have to wake up before dawn.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, based on extensive research and user experiences, the Sonic Alert Sonic Boom Alarm Clock with A Bed Shaker is highly recommended as the best alarm clock option for individuals with hearing loss. Its combination of loud sound, powerful bed shaking, and flashing lights provides an effective waking experience. However, for individuals with milder hearing loss or those seeking alternative waking methods, there are makeshift options available such as Fitbits, light-based alarm clocks, timer-connected lights, or unconventional methods like trained pets. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and the level of hearing loss.
