Assistive Technology
A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home technology. There are so many options to choose from, and ARES Advocates can work with you to identify those that are compatible with your needs. In-home assessments are also available. The devices that are most frequently asked for are:
- Videophones: Devices that enable sign language users to make phone calls through a web camera, either point-to-point or with a hearing caller via a Video Relay Services interpreter that interprets between ASL/English or ASL/Spanish. (VRS is a free service commissioned by the FCC.)
- Captioned phones: Phones that display what the other caller says in real-time text captions. Available in English and Spanish.
- Amplified phones: Phones with adjustable controls to make incoming sounds louder, including frequency and tone control and ringers.
- TV listening devices: Portable devices that amplify sound from the television and channels it to a hearing aid or headphones
- Hearing aids: Removable devices that rest in or behind the ear, and amplifies sound
- Alerting devices: Devices that emit a loud tone, vibrate or flash when triggered, such as:
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Smoke detector
- Fire alarm
- Baby cry
- Doorbell/door knock
- Wake-up alarm
More information about assistive technology is available in the Resources section.
Acquiring Technology
Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances. Factors like health insurance, income, assets, whether you rent or own your home, among others, are used to determine your eligibility for various assistive technology programs. Each program has different requirements, and ARES Advocates will guide you in choosing the most appropriate program for you.
The Title VII Part B program
In Massachusetts, federal money from the Title VII Part B (authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1992 as amended) is made available to many Independent Living Centers, including DEAF, Inc., for the purchase of equipment to help people maintain or achieve independence. The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) administers the release of funds, up to $2,500 per applicant. The program is first come, first serve.
Persons receiving Supplemental Security Income and/or AFDC/TAFDC benefits are automatically eligible as long as proof of benefits is provided with the Title VII Part B application.
The Title VII Part B program is a last resort for those who cannot get equipment or services elsewhere. If another program can provide equipment or services, the Title VII Part B program requires use of that program first.
More information is available here
Need assistive technology for home or workplace?
In some cases, assistive technology can be obtained from a landlord, housing authority, or your local fire department through what is known as a “reasonable accommodation request.” ARES Advocates can co-navigate with you so you are able to get what is needed in order to live in your home safely.
Using assistive technology
Once you get your equipment, it is essential that you are able to use it. ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location. We can also arrange for a product representative to meet with you, if needed.
Apps
In addition to acquiring devices, we can recommend apps on smartphones, tablets, and computers that support communication, and provide training on how to use them. The selection of available apps evolves continuously, but some of the most commonly used apps can be found on our Resources page.
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