Resources for Phoenicians with Hearing Loss

It can be isolating to have hearing loss. There are, however, a plethora of services in Phoenix tailored specifically for hard-of-hearing individuals that provide help, motivation, and opportunities to connect with others. Take a look at the following resources to make daily life with hearing loss a little bit easier, from support groups and local activities to technological tools.

Arizona Relay Service (AZRS)‍

AZRS offers a range of free programs to people who have difficulty hearing or communicating. Dial the appropriate AZRS number for the service you need, provide the Communication Assistant (CA) with the phone number of the person you wish to contact, and you will be connected.
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You can dial 7-1-1 to be linked to relay services or look up the direct line for the service you want. The following are some of the relay options provided:

• Voice calls: For the person with hearing loss, voicing is typed or signed by a CA on their behalf.
• HCO: If the caller has difficulty speaking, the CA will read their written text to others.
• TTY: A CA transcribes phone calls for the user.
• TeleBraille: This is a tool for people who have both hearing and vision problems.
• Speech-to-Speech: CAs that have received instruction in speech disorders serve as interpreters for individuals who have difficulty communicating.
  

Adult Loss of Hearing Association (ALOHA)‍

The Adult Loss of Hearing Association (ALOHA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of those with hearing loss.
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A non-profit organization, ALOHA hosts several activities, including introductory sign language workshops, hearing technology peer discussion groups, hearing loop verification and location programs, assistive listening device presentations, and more. Some of their activities (such as their Tai Chi classes) are not immediately related to hearing loss. Still, they can provide a great way to meet those who also have hearing loss. For more events, go to their website and look at their events calendar.

Arizona Telecommunication Equipment Distribution Program (AzTEDP)

Residents who need help using the phone can get free telecommunication equipment from the state of Arizona. Captioned phones allow users to read real-time voiced phone conversations.

You need to be deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or speech-impaired to be eligible. Free demonstrations, technical support, and all other device-related services are included with the phones. You can also fill out an application for free online.

Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing (ACDHH)

The Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is a state agency that helps people who are deaf or hard of hearing. In the Grand Canyon State, ACDHH is a national leader in providing information connectivity, support programs, and community empowerment. The ACDHH's mission is to enhance the quality of life for the deaf and hard of hearing by ensuring accessibility in collaboration with the public and private sectors.

The ACDHH provides several services, including:

• communication connectivity and support services
• free equipment to all Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Speech-Impaired, and Deaf-Blind Arizonans via AzTEDP.
• self-advocacy and community empowerment resources
• licensed American Sign Language Interpreters
• Arizona Relay Service, 711, accessible to all Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Speech-Impaired, and Deaf-Blind residents.

ACDHH also offers training on a wide range of topics, from Deaf history and ADA rights to assistive technology awareness, cultural sensitivity, and hearing loss tips.

Locations in Phoenix that have hearing loops

Many hearing aids today come with a T-coil feature. These small copper coils have been standard in most hearing aids for nearly 50 years. When combined with a hearing loop, these small copper coils can significantly improve the listening experience in public places by piping sound directly to the hearing device. Phoenix spots that have a hearing loop can greatly enhance accessibility for those with hearing loss.

The following public places in Phoenix are completely looped:

• Arizona State Capitol: Both lawmaker desks and all guest galleries and public meeting spaces have hearing loops at the Arizona State Capitol. Arizona was the first state to loop all three parts of the capital building.
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: T-Coil hearing loops are accessible in the gate areas of Terminal 3 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It's worth noting that it won't work in the food and beverage, retail, or bathroom areas.
• Tempe Public Library: Hearing loops will be built in several community spaces thanks to a government grant awarded to the Tempe Public Library.
  

For more locations in your area, visit the website Loopfinder.

It's worth noting here that anyone who buys hearing aids from an Arizona-approved hearing aid dispenser or audiologist is required by law to be informed about any telecoil features and the advantages of a manual telecoil.

We hope that this list of organizations will help you find what you need. This list is by no means complete, and information about local organizations can quickly become obsolete. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, we recommend contacting the organizations directly. Contact Applied Hearing Solutions today to learn more about the other local services available to you.

Applied Hearing Solutions, 4045 E Union Hills Dr., Suite 128, Phoenix, AZ 85050.