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In today’s diverse congregations, assistive listening systems play a crucial role in making worship spaces truly inclusive. This guide breaks down the process into ten actionable steps, including:
• Understanding Congregational Needs: Identifying the specific hearing challenges faced by your community.
• Exploring Technologies: FM systems, infrared, hearing loops, and Wi-Fi-based solutions.
• Budgeting and Compliance: Meeting ADA requirements and managing long-term costs.
• Training and Maintenance: Ensuring systems are user-friendly and sustainable over time.
Whether you’re in the planning phase or actively implementing a system, this resource is packed with practical advice and real-world considerations to help you succeed.
The full guide is attached for your reference and deeper exploration. Let’s discuss your experiences, challenges, and questions about assistive listening systems in worship spaces.
Comments
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Submitted by Chris Myers on Mon, 08/11/2025 - 11:06 am EDT
What is an effective way to let a church know what assistive listening should be especially when the church's folks don't have any idea what you are saying ?
In reply to (No subject) by Chris Myers
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Submitted by ICAAT Tech Forum on Tue, 08/12/2025 - 3:05 pm EDT
Hi Chris, good question. Many people have never heard of assistive listening, so the easiest way to explain it is to let them experience it. You could arrange a quick demonstration by having an installer bring in equipment or by visiting a church that already uses assistive listening systems. Once people try it, they usually understand right away. Assistive listening is a tool that sends the pastor’s voice and other important sounds directly to a person’s hearing aids, cochlear implant, or a headset the church provides. It makes sure everyone can follow the service.
There are different types of systems, such as hearing loops, FM or infrared systems, and Wi-Fi streaming. Our Assistive Listening in Houses of Worship guide attached to this resource explains how to figure out your congregation’s needs, explore the options, and keep the system working well.
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Submitted by Juliette Sterkens on Tue, 08/12/2025 - 4:33 pm EDT
Is there proof that Audio-via-WiFi systems work for the majority of hearing aid users?
In reply to (No subject) by Juliette Sterkens
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Submitted by ICAAT Tech Forum on Tue, 08/12/2025 - 5:05 pm EDT
Juliette, current evidence suggests that Audio-via-Wi-Fi systems can be effective for many users, but there is no universal compatibility across all devices. Not all hearing aids can receive audio directly over Wi-Fi, and many require an intermediary device such as a smartphone app, neck loop, or dedicated receiver. Effectiveness also depends on the individual's comfort with mobile technology, the venue’s network quality, and whether backup options are available for those without compatible devices.
However, there are real-world examples and use cases of audio-via-Wi-Fi systems working well.
As an example, a church installed a "Listen Everywhere" system, streaming audio over Wi-Fi to an app on smartphones. Around 30 people were using it weekly to hear sermons more clearly, and it was praised as affordable, easy to set up, and reliable. Learn more about it here.
HearingLink in the U.K. also mentions that Wi-Fi systems are a valid assistive listening option for gyms, sports venues, and places with multiple audio channels. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages here.