Assistive Technology for Hearing Resources
*These lists is provided for informational purposes only. WATF does not endorse any particular assistive technology device, vendor or manufacturer. Please send updates, suggestions or information about other vehicle modification resources to info@washingtonaccessfund.org.
Click here for tips in selecting hearing aids.
Paying for Assistive Technology for Hearing
General Hearing Resources
Hearing Speech & Deafness Center
Audiology, speech & hearing, assistive technology and advocacy services for individuals with hearing loss of all ages plus a new preschool for deaf and hard of hearing children. Store with assistive devices is open from 10:00 – 2:00 every day & has a variety of helpful devices for everyday living – phones, alarms, smoke detectors, door bells, FM devices, TTY’s etc. Items also can be purchased online at The Store. The Store’s website includes many helpful FAQ’s on hearing related AT. Offices in Seattle, Tacoma & Bellingham.
Voice: 206-323-5770
TTY: 1-800-761-2821
Videophone: 206-388-1275
Office of Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services
Resources and Telecommunications equipment program; Amplified phones, TTYs, captioned phones (CAPTEL) & other communications devices available to individuals with hearing loss – free and/or low cost on a sliding scale. Lists of interpreters & captioning services.
Voice/TTY: 1-800-422-7930
Washington Relay and Video Relay Services
Washington Relay is a free service provided through Office of Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services and operated by Sprint allows hearing and hard of hearing or deaf individuals to communicate via a TTY and Relay Operator. To place a relay call, dial 711. Video relay services use a video phone or web cam equipped computer enabling ASL users to communicate using ASL.
TTY Software
You can find free TTY software on the web by searching for “TTY software” including for example: http://www.nextalk.net. This software allows you to use your computer as a TTY.
Websites
Online Catalogues
You can find many helpful assistive devices from online catalogues including, for example, HearMore and Harris Communications.
Deafweb
Washington state website with many excellent resources for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing including information about assistive technology from hearing aids to video relay to cochlear implants. Also includes list of relevant organizations including regional service centers for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and membership & advocacy organizations.
Selected Organizations
Hearing Loss Association of Washington
Tips & advice on selecting audiologists & hearing aid vendors; information about selecting and using hearing aids. Local resources & events throughout Washington State related to hearing loss and assistive technology. Chapters throughout state.
Voice: 360-871-0997
Washington State Association of the Deaf
Statewide organization with mission of promoting, protecting and preserving rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Washington state. Newsletter, annual conference & other events.
Washington State Deaf-Blind Citizens
Statewide organization to encourage fellowship and to promote civil rights, educational, economic, and social welfare for deaf-blind individuals.
Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
An international organization with information on hearing loss, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.
Voice: 202-337-5220
TTY: 202-337-5221
