Naomi Craig Hearing Technology Demonstration Center
The use of assistive technology at home or work is an important first step in achieving communication accessibility for individuals with hearing loss. Interactive displays at the Naomi Craig Hearing Technology and Rehabilitation Center permit demonstrations of the latest assistive devices including telecommunication devices, alerting devices, personal and large-area assistive listening devices. A comprehensive communication needs assessment is conducted in order to match the best technology to the user's needs and to interface properly with existing or planned hearing aids or cochlear implants. Devices are available for purchase, loan and/or rent. Device orientation is provided to ensure proper care and use of the devices. Consultation regarding ADA accommodations in the workplace and public facilities is available.
Assistive Listening Devices
Assistive listening devices are used for hearing improvement in personal face-to-face communication, meetings, television and large area listening situations made more difficult due to noise, distance and reverberation. A variety of hardwired, wireless FM and infrared devices are available for demonstration.
Telecommunications Devices
Telephone amplifiers and amplified telephones are often needed to improve communication over the telephone whether or not you use a hearing aid. A variety of styles and types are on display to determine which device best suits your needs. Special devices are available to facilitate coupling of a hearing aid or cochlear implant to cell phones and regular phones. Non-auditory devices such as traditional and computerized TTYs and VCO (Voice Carry Over) phones are also on display.
Alerting/Signaling Devices
Alerting devices assist in the awareness of environmental sounds. Alerting devices provide an important function by signaling the user to important events and occurrences that are otherwise inaudible to individuals with a significant hearing loss, especially when the hearing aid or cochlear implant is not in use such as at night. Alerting devices use visual, vibrotactile or auditory alerts to signal events such as the doorbell, phone ringing, baby crying, alarm clock, fire alarm, pagers, etc.
Scheduling
The speech and hearing clinics are located on ASU's Tempe campus. To schedule an appointment, please contact the ASU Speech and Hearing Clinic.