Movie theaters are no doubt one of the most visited places for families, couples, and movie lovers all around. However, what many people probably don’t know is that movie theaters offer assistive hearing loss services for those who may be hard of hearing. These services help open up a world of cinematic wonder to those who may have otherwise had to wait for movies to be released on DVD and watch them at home with closed captions. Because many people may not know about these additional helpful services, we’ve decided to list out a few of them that some movie theaters may offer!
Subtitle Glasses
These are more specifically for 3D movies and can be worn over prescription-grade glasses. When using these subtitle glasses throughout a 3-dimensional movie, only you are able to see a 3D version of subtitles located within the screen. This allows for you to enjoy and follow along with the movie while others can also enjoy a subtitle-free movie.
Phone Apps
While the use of phones are strictly prohibited in the movie theater, there are some apps that can actually help your auditory needs when wanting to go see a movie. There are a few phone services that will be able to help you locate movie theaters that offer certain services, as well as stream movie captions directly to your phone. Your phone will also let you know what’s available at each movie theater in regard to assistive services, so you’re aware of what to expect before going to the movie theater.
Closed Captioning
Rear-window captioning services are available at all AMC theaters nationwide and can help users follow along with the movie without distracting other moviegoers. How these devices work is you are provided a flat panel that fits directly into the cup holder. This panel provides subtitles that are shown on a separate smaller display which allows the user to be able to see the subtitles directly in front of them without having them placed on the actual main movie screen.
Assistive Listening Devices
These devices were one of the first services that movie theaters offered to help those that are hard of hearing enjoy the movie. With the use of FM transmitters or infrared broadcast emitters and specialized headphones, hard of hearing movie lovers are able to hear the film with crystal clarity!
Know Before You Go
These additional services that can be offered by some movie theaters are to help everyone thoroughly enjoy cinematic marvels. However, it is important to always be sure to call ahead to make certain any assistance needed can be properly provided by the theater you plan on going to.
If you or a loved one has noticed a difference in your hearing, we encourage you to schedule your next hearing test with us!