The California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) provides a number of resources to individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing. Funding options for equipment is one of the most important.
Assistive Equipment for Deaf and Hard of Hearing
DDS provides funding options to help individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing access essential assistive equipment. Such equipment supports communication, safety, and independence.
In general, this funding is available through DDS regional centers. There, care coordinators work with eligible individuals to identify and fund assistive technology that meets their specific needs.
Assistive equipment can include hearing aids, alert systems, amplified phones, videophones, and various other assistive communication devices such as speech-generating tools or tablets with accessibility apps. DDS may also fund environmental adaptations, like doorbell signalers or vibrating alarm clocks.
How to Access Funding for Assistive Equipment
To access funding, you must first be eligible for DDS services. Additionally, to receiving funding for assistive equipment, you must establish the following:
- Your need for assistive equipment is related to your developmental disability.
- The assistive equipment will help you pursue developmental goals such as employment, greater independence, or community integration.
- Your need must be documented in your Individual Program Plan (“IPP).
- You must show that you’ve already tried to secure the assistive equipment through other means.
If you meet these criteria, you should qualify for funding through your DDS regional center.
Once the assistive equipment has been purchased, it belongs to you. While that means the state won’t take back the equipment, it also means you are responsible for maintenance, repairs, and other similar costs.
Through its regional centers, California DDS helps ensure that deaf and hard of hearing individuals have access to the assistive equipment that will empower them to communicate more easily and effectively. Ultimately, this fosters independence and allows individuals to participate more fully in their communities.
If you or your loved one qualifies for DDS services and is deaf and hard of hearing, funding options for equipment are available. Be sure to speak to your care coordinator to get the process started.