Assistive Technology

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http://www.nad.org/assistivetechnology

We live in a society where technology is rapidly changing our lives, and this is particularly true within the deaf and hard of hearing community. For example, no fewer than two decades ago most deaf and hard of hearing Americans had to rely on their fellow neighbors to make a simple phone call.

Today…

Deaf and hard of hearing people are empowered by various relay technologies to make a call with their preferred method of communicating, whether it is with their own voice (Voice Carry Over), a computer or TTY (Telecommunications or Internet Relay Service) or sign language (Video Relay Service).

Diligent oversight

These assistive technologies are constantly regulated and supported by various agencies and government offices throughout the country. This requires that the NAD diligently ensure that services and products are always available for deaf and hard of hearing people.

Looking towards the future

On these pages dealing with assistive technologies, you will find that the NAD is continuously involved in efforts in technologies such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, visual alert and signaling systems, TTYs, assistive listening devices, captioning, relay services, and more. The NAD looks forward to a brighter future where new technologies take root and tumble communication barriers that have prevented deaf and hard of hearing people from being fully functional members of society.

Hearing Aids

There are numerous issues that the NAD is working on with regard to hearing aids.  This includes hearing aid compatibility with telephones, insurance coverage for hearing aid, and building designs with appropriate acoustics properties.  Hearing aids cost thousands of dollars.  The NAD will continue to seek ways fund coverage or reimbursement for hearing aids so it will be more affordable for all individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Cochlear Implants

Of particular controversy in the medical and educational communities are the use of cochlear implants as part of or as a substitute for the necessary language and educational upbringing of deaf and hard of hearing children. The NAD developed the NAD Position Statement on Cochlear Implants (CI) in response to the controversy.