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!

James Barta

01:51 22 Jan 18

This is my first visit to Cook Hearing. Dr. Sperino is the best. I have had hearing aids from another provider for the past 3 years. The thoroughness of the diagnosis and details discussions of the results and available options are second to none. I believe that I found a provider and staff dedicated to my best interests, and that I have no need to look any further.

Jose Vega

18:48 19 Oct 17

I flew my parents to Austin from Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Maria. My Dad lost his hearing aids during the hurricane so we needed to get him new ones. We contacted Cook Hearing and from day one they were very helpful and gracious dealing with our ordeal. Within a couple of days my dad was able to get a hearing test and purchase hearing aids with Cook at a reasonable price. We cannot thank them enough for all they did for our family. They are highly recommended.

Ron Russak

17:28 11 Sep 17

You may have heard Lori's commercials. I can tell you from experience that they know what they are doing and really care about each and every patient. The latest Resound hearing aids are very high tech. They can adjust as your environment changes. They integrate into your phone for even more control and a custom hearing experience. I highly recommend Cook Hearing and Balance.

Brenda Jennings

16:21 05 Aug 17

I'm not even sure where to begin. My Husband's hearing has been steadily getting worse over the last few years, and even though he is only in his 40's, his hearing has dipped down into the profound hearing loss range. His old pair of hearing aids were unable to keep up with this amount hearing loss. Without hearing aids, he isn't aware that I'm speaking to him unless I tap his arm and get his attention. I then look at him and speak clearly, because we have found that he is able to read lips quite well. We had a blessing in disguise when his old hearing aids went missing. We researched online and found Cook Hearing and Balance.To say that this experience has been amazing is an understatement. From the beginning, Anne, his audiologist, took TIME to evaluate, and educate both Rusty and I on our options for the best possible solution for him. She then fitted him for a pair of hearing aids, put them in his ears, programmed them, and turned them on. I watched my husband's face as he heard words and sounds that he hasn't been able to hear in years...clearly. His face showed surprise and shock. He smiled and a few words he RARELY says slipped out. Anne walked quietly around the room. She turned on a water faucet. He could hear it. She tore a piece of paper. He could hear it. He started asking him unrelated, random questions in a quiet tone while walking behind him, and he could answer ALL of her questions... without asking her to repeat anything:)Rusty cried. I cried. And she was even visibly moved. These people truly care!!!That night we went out to dinner with my dad at a busy Mexican food restaurant. He was able to hear the conversation over the noise in the room. Lori, the owner, and Anne have worked with us and our insurance company to make sure that the purchase was attainable and went smoothly. They have been sooo encouraging and positive. Everyone on staff has been so kind....from the receptionist, to his audiologist (Anne), and of course the owner, Lori. They have definitely earned loyal customers and I highly recommend them to everyone. (I even gave my dad their name)Brenda Jennings

Maurice Aguirre

15:32 15 Feb 18

Family owned and oriented business that truly puts their patients first.

Crystie Ham

04:38 26 Jan 17

I cannot say enough good things about Cook Hearing and Balance. They have been helping me for years with my hearing aides. They always work to find the best technology that works for what I need. And when I have trouble, they are quick to help with any issues. To top it all off, the staff is very knowledgeable and super friendly! I would not go anywhere else for my hearing aide needs!

Rusty Jennings

21:07 26 Jul 17

I had the most amazing experience coming to Cook hearing and balance. Right away I felt like family. They didn't rush me they took plenty of time with me. I wish I had known about them years ago. I love these guys.

107 aas-tx

14:29 30 Aug 18

After years of not being able to hear conversations in restaurants or at work, I finally went to Laurie at Cook Hearing and Balance. The entire experience was above and beyond all expectations. Fantastic, professional service, friendly staff and a exceptional products. Don't wait, go see them and hear again.

Eric Johnson

10:05 05 Nov 18

In 2005, I lost more than 50% of my high frequency hearing due to a an episode of Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease. Steroid injections through my ear drums by my ENT doctor stopped further loss, but could not recover it. I got my first over-the-ear instruments in 2007 from Cook Hearing after realizing my speech interpretation was so bad that I was becoming socially isolated. I wore the original set for 5 years, but the wind noise prohibited full-time use.In 2013 I upgraded to new in-the-ear technology with custom molded instruments. The technological improvements were quickly realized with better noise cancellation and I was more comfortable wearing them because they were hidden from view. I wore these instruments for the next 5 years until I began to notice my speech was not optimal and my ear canals were more frequently irritated with them in.This year 2018, I made the decision to be retested with a consultation for the opportunity to upgrade again to latest technology. Dr. Sperino listened to my concerns and provided a through examination. With her considered recommendation I purchased, new Signia Silk Nx instruments. These are lighter, smaller and ready-to-wear. With a phone application I can change programs for different environments and always control the volume. With two office visits for adjustments, I can report that I have the best quality hearing life in the past 13 years!Today I can work in a noisy environment, socialize in any setting and understand conversation without feeling anxious. I have regained the desire to listen to music with lyrical comprehension. I am fearless to meet new people and challenge myself to speak in public. I hear and understand sounds today I have not been able to for the past decade.Before more life slips away as a hearing impaired individual, make your appointment today! If you have instruments 5 or more years old, check out the latest technology and hear what you are missing in your life! Remember the loved ones in your life deserve to be heard and you can treat them to your better hearing. Don't delay regaining your hearing comprehension. Visit Dr. Sperino soon!

Rob Lederman

00:35 28 Nov 18

I have been a customer for 6+ years. I started going there when there was only 4 people and the great customer services has not changed as of today. Great service and prices. Laurie and team get the work done and are great at it!!

TL Morgan

01:22 21 Dec 18

Dr. Elizabeth Sperino worked with my wife and I. She was extremely patient and thorough with our hearing concerns. She fitted my wife with a customized pair of hearing aids and they fit perfectly the very first time she helped with installation. Took the time to download the app on her phone and went through the step by step process on how to use them. Thank you Elizabeth, for a job well done!

Brendan Hinman

18:21 02 Jan 19

This place is life changing. Dr. Sperino is caring and attentive, patient, and extremely helpful. The staff was wonderful (they were also attentive, and quick to assist). I’ve suffered from tinnitus for decades and this was the first time I’ve felt any relief. I didn’t expect hearing aids to be the solution yet now very rarely do I hear that high pitched noise that’s been a constant companion for so long. I can say without shame I cried in that office.

Belinda Johnson

02:22 08 Jan 19

Great place good Dr. For hearing aids

Caleb Santana

23:37 14 Jan 19

Simply the greatest hearing aide office I have ever been to, they offer a wide range of services at an affordable cost!!

Bob Crimm

06:03 16 Jan 19

Lori has always taken great care for my mother's hearing and the staff is so nice to our family.

J.T. Kelley

19:53 07 Feb 19

Real Ear Measurement is the only proven test to evaluate if your hearing aids are matched with your hearing prescription. I learned how important Real Ear Measurement is from watching Dr Cliff Olsen on YouTube (check it out) Cook Hearing and Balance (Cedar Park) offers this most important test. My hearing is excellent and effortless again. Dr Elizabeth Sperino exceeded my expectations with her knowledge and expertise. What a professional absolute top notch clinic. I’m thrilled I found you. Sincerely, JT Kelley

Robert Biral

21:28 15 Jul 19

I purchased my first set of hearing aids for a big box store. Thought I was getting a good deal. Anyway, When it was time to upgrade my hearing aids. I decided to go to Cook Hearing and Balance.. I should have gone there for my first set. What a difference in my overall experience. The staff is always courteous, even when I just drop in for an adjustment. It's not unusual to see Lori Cook greeting patients. Dr Sperino performed my hearing test. We worked together to select and adjust the hearing aids to best improve my hearing as possible. I can't say enough good things about her and Cooks Hearing and Balance.

Tom Combs

01:59 30 Aug 19

Excellent customer service Great prices on major brand hearing aids

Yvonne Newman

00:25 17 Sep 19

I was a walkin with a hearing aid that stopped working. They fixed the reciever and sent this happy person home. No charge.

Cook Hearing and Balance Blog

Movie Theaters and Hearing Loss

Subtitle Glasses

Phone Apps

Closed Captioning

Assistive Listening Devices

Know Before You Go