Last Updated on August 7, 2025 by Jonathan Javid Au.D.
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As an audiologist, I understand how challenging it can be to communicate effectively on the phone when you have hearing loss. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to improve your ability to hear during phone conversations, particularly when using hearing aids. So how do you hear better on phone calls using hearing aids?
1. Reduce Background Noise
Reducing background noise is critical to improving your ability to hear during phone conversations—even with hearing aids. One way to reduce background noise is by talking in a quiet, empty room. This can be as simple as closing the door to a private room or moving to a quieter area of your home. If you’re on the go, consider stepping outside or finding a quiet corner where you can talk without being distracted by background noise.
Another strategy is to turn off the TV, music, or any ambient sound. Even low-volume noise can make phone conversations challenging. Avoid talking on the phone in noisy environments such as coffee shops or public transportation. In high-noise areas, texting may be a better alternative.
If you struggle with noisy environments, see my recommendation for the best hearing aids for background noise to enhance clarity during difficult listening situations.
2. Correctly Position the Phone
If you use a BTE (behind-the-ear) or RIC (receiver-in-canal) style hearing aid, it’s important to hold your phone slightly above your ear canal—closer to where the microphones are located on top of the device. Holding the phone directly over your ear canal can block the microphones and degrade sound quality.
Practice proper phone positioning or consult your audiologist if you’re unsure how to best align the phone with your hearing aid microphone. Proper technique can make a significant difference in your call experience.
3. Use Speakerphone—When Appropriate
Speakerphone mode allows sound to be heard in both ears and can be helpful if you’re alone or in a quiet location. This can enhance clarity and reduce the strain of listening with just one ear. Many patients report speakerphone improves comprehension and comfort during long conversations.
However, avoid speakerphone in public spaces, and test it beforehand as some phones have poor-quality speakers. Always ensure privacy and courtesy when using this option.
4. Use Bluetooth Hearing Aids for Direct Streaming
Modern hearing aids frequently include Bluetooth streaming capabilities. This allows calls to be streamed directly into both hearing aids, giving you stereo sound and clearer speech comprehension.
Direct streaming also reduces background noise by minimizing reliance on external microphones. Read our Bluetooth troubleshooting guide if you’re having connectivity issues. If you’re shopping for your next pair of hearing aids, prioritize those with Bluetooth functionality.
5. Consider CaptionCall Phones or Apps
For individuals with more significant hearing loss, CaptionCall phones offer real-time captions during phone conversations. These devices are available for both landlines and mobile phones and often free to those who qualify.
With captioning accuracy over 95%, the words spoken by the caller appear on-screen with minimal delay. CaptionCall can be a game-changer for those struggling with certain accents, fast speakers, or hearing fatigue.
Captioned calls also work with the CaptionCall mobile app, which is especially helpful if you’re on the go. For more ways to improve hearing in everyday settings, check out Living Well with Hearing Loss.
Additional Tips
- Ask the person on the other end to speak slowly and clearly.
- Use a visual phone directory with photos if you have memory issues.
- Ensure your hearing aids are clean and in good working condition. Here’s how to clean them properly.
- Try headphones over your hearing aids if streaming isn’t an option.
- Make sure your phone’s volume is adjusted properly. A phone amplifier may help.
Don’t hesitate to ask your audiologist to demonstrate phone strategies in-office. Many modern hearing aids even have phone-specific programs or custom settings available.
Conclusion
Communicating over the phone with hearing loss doesn’t have to be frustrating. By using the right technology and techniques—Bluetooth streaming, proper positioning, speakerphone, and captioning apps—you can significantly improve your phone conversations. Need help figuring out what’s best for your hearing needs? Contact us here for more personalized advice.
For more hearing aid tips, explore: