Deaf, Hard of Hearing & DeafBlind Resources
The California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) aims to provide care that is personalized and tailored to the unique needs, goals, and priorities of each individual participant. Making care and resources accessible to those who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or deafblind is a top priority for the DDS. The DDS deaf services California provides includes pairing individuals with resources that specialize in serving deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Likewise, the DDS provides specialized care for those who are blind and deafblind. In addition to matching individuals with the customized and specialized care they need, the DDS also works hard to ensure all its own programs, informational materials, and facilities are accessible to everyone.
DDS Deaf Services California
DDS recognizes that communication is central to self-determination. For individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or deafblind, accessing developmental services can require additional accommodations. To meet this need, DDS collaborates with regional centers and community partners to provide specialized supports. These resources are designed to ensure individuals have equal access to services, opportunities, and environments. They include communication assistance, adaptive technologies, and culturally competent support delivered in ways that respect each individual’s language preferences and unique needs.
In total, the deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind resources provided by the DDS aim to achieve the following:
- Communication Assistance: DDS is focused on breaking down communication barriers. To do this, the DDS provides a number of different interpreters. This includes interpreters in American Sign Language (ASL), tactile interpreting for deafblind individuals, captioning services, and other accommodations.
- Assistive Technology: Regional centers help connect families and individuals with devices such as hearing aids, cochlear implant support, video relay services, and braille or screen-reader technology. These services ensure everyone can communicate regardless of their disability status.
- Specialized Training and Education: Families and providers receive training on how best to best support deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind individuals. This may include learning about communication strategies or the use of assistive technologies. Similarly, this can also include cultural competency training.
- Service Coordination: DDS regional center care providers regularly coordinate with experts in deaf and deafblind services. The DDS’s vast network of care professionals ensures that you or your loved one gets precisely the care they need.
- Community Integration: Programs are designed to foster full participation in school, employment, and community life. Community integration like this is vital, as it helps minimize feelings of loneliness and promotes independence.
FAQ
Q: Who is eligible for DDS resources for deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or deafblind individuals?
A: Individuals who qualify for DDS services through regional centers and who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or deafblind are eligible for accommodations and specialized services. In fact, providing this type of individualized support is one of the fundamental objectives of the DDS.
Q: How do I access these services?
A: All services for deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or deafblind individuals is administered through regional service centers. If you or your loved one is seeking accessibility accommodations or other forms of care, speak with your regional center.
Q: Are interpreters and assistive devices covered by DDS?
A: Yes. DDS ensures that necessary communication supports, including interpreters and technology, are provided to eligible individuals at no cost.
Q: Do families receive support too?
A: Yes. Because DDS is committed to providing holistic care for developmentally disabled individuals, it also provides support to families. Specifically, families and caregivers can access training, education, and support through their regional DDS center.