There are many sources of information about all aspects of hearing loss, ranging from what hearing loss is and the various types of hearing loss to how to cope to technological devices. The National HLAA website, www.hearingloss.org, is a particularly good source of information. But also consider asking a chapter member about what they suggest, what has worked for them. The Madison HLAA Chapter strives to be a support group for all.
IMPORTANT NOTE: LISTINGS BELOW ARE INTENDED AS EXAMPLES AND SUGGESTIONS. FOR REFERENCE ONLY. HLAA DOES NOT ENDORSE SPECIFIC PRODUCTS
ABOUT HEARING LOSS
Hearing Loss Basics Excellent information ranging from how to tell if you have a hearing loss to general information about hearing loss including types, causes and treatment of hearing loss.
Hearing Aids Overview of hearing aids including types and buying one s/
OTC Hearing Aids Information about Over The Counter (OTC) hearing aids including whether to chose one and the FTC rules t
Cochlear Implants and other Implantable Devices General information about cochlear implants, who are they intended for, and manufacturers
What You Don’t Know About Hearing Aids Video of Juliëtte Sterkens, an audiologist and the driving force of the Hearing Loop initiative of HLAA, presents a TEDx Talk in Oshkosh.
TECHNOLOGY
HEAR Wisconsin HearWisconsin is a non-profit based near Milwaukee which, besides providing a variety of services to Hard of Hearing and Deaf individuals, also has a store that stocked with a wide array of assistive devices.
Remote Microphones Many hearing aid manufacturers also offer remote microphones which can be very valuable in noisy settings or during presentations. Valuable resources are your audiologist or HearWI. The devices listed are representative only as there are others.
Telecoils and Loops Get In The Hearing Loop For those who have a telecoil in their hearing aid or implant, Loops can make listening in live theatre, churches, or meeting rooms remarkably clearer and enjoyable.
Cell Phones and Telephones There are a variety of assistive options for telephone use including TDD’s for home use and apps for mobile phones. Many devices and apps are provided without charge.
Alerting Devices Doorbells, baby alerts, and other devices. A wide variety of devices are available. Some of the Independent Living Centers have examples for try-out. The HEAR Wisconsin Assistive Technology Center also has a variety of devices for display, tryout, and sale.
Apps for iPhone and Android Tina Childress, AuD has developed a remarkable list of useful apps related to hearing loss. Some, such as those that provide speech to text in conversational settings, are highly valuable and others are simply fun.
MEDICAL
Communication Rights in a Medical Setting Clear communication in the medical setting is vital for not only reducing anxiety but for helping insure that treatment is appropriate and accurate. HLAA National provides several guidelines including some related to preparing for your medical visit and others related to rights and responsibilities.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
TEPP and TAP TEPP stands for Wisconsin’s Telephone Equipment Purchase Program and is administered by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. TAP refers to the Telecommunications Assistance Program. TEPP provides funds to any resident of WI who has a documented hearing loss for the purchase of telecommunications equipment. The amount is based on a sliding scale depending on degree of hearing loss. There is a $100 dollar co-pay. TAP provides funding for low-income applicants to cover the co-pay.
STATE AGENCY SERVING HARD OF HEARING AND DEAF CITIZENS
Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) The Wisconsin State Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) provides a variety of services including referral, communication assistance, interpreter service, a service fund which pays for interpreters and CART, and the Behavioral Health Initiative
WisTech The Wisconsin Assistive Technology Program serves all people with disabilities. Focus of the program is on demonstration, device loans, financing, and training.