For a person wearing hearing aids at a lecture, which environmental factor would NOT interfere with speech comprehension?

A wireless microphone for the speaker is a crucial environmental factor that enhances speech comprehension for individuals wearing hearing aids. The use of a wireless microphone improves the signal-to-noise ratio by capturing the speaker's voice directly and transmitting it to the listener's hearing aids, often minimizing background noise and reverberation. This direct transmission makes it easier for individuals with hearing loss to focus on the spoken words without being overwhelmed by other auditory distractions.

In contrast, the other factors listed can negatively impact speech comprehension. For instance, being too far from the speaker can weaken the sound signal, making it harder to understand. Background noise (such as chatter, traffic, or other disturbances) can mask the speaker's voice, creating difficulties in discerning speech. Finally, a room with poor acoustic quality can lead to echoes or sound distortion, further complicating the listening experience for those using hearing aids. Therefore, the presence of a wireless microphone significantly enhances the acoustic environment for someone reliant on hearing assistance.