Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home technology."
No items found.

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.

Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home 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.

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home 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.

Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home technology."
No items found.

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.

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home 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.

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home technology."

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Assistive Technology

A fair skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long sleeved polo shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "Technology." The captions show "A wide array of assistive technology is available to support individuals with hearing loss, including smart home 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

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

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.

Acquiring Technology

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

Acquiring Technology

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

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.

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

Walk-In Hours

(Except on Holidays & 
December 24 - January 1)

Watertown Office
Tuesdays 9:00 am - 12:00pm

New Bedford Office
Wednesdays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Salem Office
Wednesdays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Hyannis Office
2nd & 4th Thursdays
10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Lawrence Office
Thursdays 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Acquiring Technology

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

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.

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

Acquiring Technology

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

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.

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "free." with his other hand across his chest. The captions show "Some assistive technology devices can be obtained for little to no cost, depending on your unique circumstances."

The Title VII Part B program

A fair-skinned woman wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, glasses, and standing in front of a gray background is signing "qualify." The captions say, "administers the release of finds up to $2,500 per applicant. The program is first come, first serve."

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

A fair-skinned woman wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, glasses, and standing in front of a gray background is signing "qualify." The captions say, "administers the release of finds up to $2,500 per applicant. The program is first come, first serve."

The Title VII Part B program

A fair-skinned woman wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, glasses, and standing in front of a gray background is signing "qualify." The captions say, "administers the release of finds up to $2,500 per applicant. The program is first come, first serve."

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

A fair-skinned woman wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, glasses, and standing in front of a gray background is signing "qualify." The captions say, "administers the release of finds up to $2,500 per applicant. The program is first come, first serve."

Need assistive technology for home or workplace?

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "support." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can co-navigate with you so you are able to get what is needed in order to live in your home safely."

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.

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "support." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can co-navigate with you so you are able to get what is needed in order to live in your home safely."

Need assistive technology for home or workplace?

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "support." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can co-navigate with you so you are able to get what is needed in order to live in your home safely."

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.

A fair skinned man is wearing a gray vest over a long sleeved, dull orange, shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background. He is signing "support." The captions show, "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

A fair-skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long-sleeved shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background and signing "Use." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location."
No items found.

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.

Using assistive technology

A fair-skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long-sleeved shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background and signing "Use." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location."

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.

A fair-skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long-sleeved shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background and signing "Use." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location."

Using assistive technology

A fair-skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long-sleeved shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background and signing "Use." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location."

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.

A fair-skinned man with glasses is wearing a black long-sleeved shirt. He is standing in front of a gray background and signing "Use." The captions show, "ARES Advocates can provide training on a variety of assistive technologies in your home, at one of our offices, or at a community location."

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.