RESOURCES ARE GEMS

As my hearing loss journey began to change my life, I was introduced to doing things differently when I became involved with a hearing loss support group. I was introduced to hearing loss information, advocacy tips, and resources. I began to meet others like myself and got pointers on strategy communication skills that enable me to embrace my hearing loss. However, the resources were instrumental in helping me live a more accessible, inclusive lifestyle.

State and Federal Agencies

Department of Vocational Rehabilitation

DVR is an employment program that help people with disabilities. DVR can help you find, keep, and get a better job. DVR will help you financially with hearing aids and assistive devices. Contact your local DVR for eligibility.

Hearing Loss Organizations and Associations

There are many organizations dedicated to helping the Deaf and Hard of hearing communities.

Telecommunications State Telephone Programs

The program provides free or low-cost telephone equipment to individuals who qualify, to accommodate their hearing loss and accessibility. Visit the Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program Association (TEDPA) at tedpa.org for your state program.

Hearing Assistive Technology

Technology is very instrumental in helping individuals with hearing loss. Examples of hearing assistive technology (HAT) devices includes.

-Assistive Listening Devices- FM, Hearing Loop Systems, Infrared

-Telecommunications products and services- captioned telephones, relay services

-Alerting devices- alarm clocks, smoke alarms, etc. that use loud audio alerts, vibrating receivers and/or flashing lights

-Equipment distribution programs, state assistive technology program and many other beneficial resources.