You might wonder what a Resource Center for people with hearing loss is. Disability Network Lakeshore has received a small grant to start a Resource Center that allowed us to purchase assistive technology devices that may make life easier for those with hearing loss. At the Center, you may borrow these devices for up to two weeks to try them out. Why is that important? Because some of these devices are quite expensive and paying for them only to find out they weren’t what you needed can be financially devastating. By being able to borrow a device and try it out, you can determine whether it will work for you before spending the money on it. That can make a big difference!
This kind of trial can save both money and stress. Hearing loss affects people in different ways. One person may need help hearing the phone ring. Another may need a louder alarm clock so they do not oversleep for work, school, or an appointment. Another person may need a way to notice a weather warning or a door signal. A Resource Center gives people a chance to test tools in real life instead of guessing from a box or a display shelf.
Some of the items we have in the Center include a portable telephone amplifier, a Sonic Boom alarm clock, a weather alert radio with flasher, a Universal Sound Signaler, a LookOut Notification Signaler, and much, much more. In addition, there is free information on area resources to help with hearing loss and even free communication stickers you can place on your car to let the police know you are hearing impaired if they pull over.
These items can help with everyday tasks. For example, a portable telephone amplifier may make phone calls easier to follow. A Sonic Boom alarm clock can help a person wake up on time with sound and vibration or flashing lights. A weather alert radio with flasher can give another layer of warning when severe weather is near. Signalers can help people notice sounds they might miss, like a doorbell, alarm, or other important alert.
If you are not sure what you need, that is okay. A short visit can help you compare options. You may ask questions, look at the devices, and think about where you need help the most. It can help to make a list before you come. For example:
- Do I need help at home, at work, or in the car?
- Do I miss alarms, calls, or weather alerts?
- Do I want something that flashes, vibrates, or amplifies sound?
- Will I use the device every day?
Thinking about these questions ahead of time can make your visit easier. It can also help you choose a device that fits your daily life. A tool that works well for one person may not be the right fit for someone else. That is why borrowing before buying is so useful.
The Resource Center is growing with new items being added as funds become available. Please call Disability Network Lakeshore and make an appointment to visit the Center, or just drop in and visit us! With an appointment, you can ask to have a staff member available to explain items and assist you in choosing the right device for your needs. Call us at 616-396-5326.
If you visit without an appointment, you can still learn what is available. If you do make an appointment, try to bring any questions you have and, if possible, the device or situation you want help with. For example, if you want help with hearing a phone, you can explain what kind of phone you use now. If you need help with alerts in the home, you can explain what sounds you miss most often. Details like these can help staff point you toward the right item.
Our World still has barriers for people with disabilities.
Whether you're an individual or a company, searching for disability resources is discouraging and frustrating. And when you don't have the right tools, individuals and communities suffer. Wouldn't you like to live in an inclusive community where everyone can participate, contribute, and belong?
That is why places like this Resource Center matter. Hearing loss can create barriers in simple parts of the day, like waking up, answering the door, hearing a call, or staying aware of weather alerts. When people can access the right tools, they can take part more fully at home, at work, and in their community. Small changes can lead to a better daily routine and more peace of mind.
The right resources are hard to find. We get it.
We understand how it feels to struggle to fully participate in an inaccessible community, which is why we help people find and use disability resources.
That is also why DNL works to make support easier to reach. We know people may not know where to start. Some may feel overwhelmed by choices. Others may worry about cost. A free Resource Center visit can be a good first step. It can help turn a hard search into a simple conversation. And if you need more help beyond hearing loss devices, DNL can help guide you to other services, too. Our services are free.
Free communication stickers for your car are another example of a simple tool that can help in a stressful moment. If you are pulled over, they may help let police know you are hearing impaired. That small step may reduce confusion and support safer communication. It is one more way the Resource Center can offer practical help, not just information.
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442 Century Lane
Holland, MI 49423
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If you are looking for support in Ottawa or Allegan counties, Michigan, DNL is here to help. You can reach us at (616) 396-5326. We are located at 442 Century Lane, Holland, MI 49423.