This post was originally published here, as a, but since it may be beneficial & helpful for some of our patients and readers, I’ve included a some snippets and the link, in case it may be of value to those looking into home safety modifications. I hope you find it a quick and insightful read. 

What modifications or technological tools are available to those experiencing hearing loss?

Prior to taking the helm here at ProActive Rehabilitation & Wellness, I worked as a healthcare consultant for Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), helping the department with statewide integrated clinical support and other projects related to supporting individuals with disabilities. Part of that work involved home modifications for safety & accessibility, so I always enjoy being able to discuss the topic.

I was able to sit down with the folks from Coverage near the end of last year, to talk specifically about home modifications and technological tools available for folks who may experience hearing loss or deafness.

Snippets on Home Modifications

“When an individual experiences an auditory impairment, safety must be the priority.”

Rafael Salazar

Regardless of the type of problem a person may be experiencing, safety must always take the forefront when considering any modifications or technology in the home. In fact, before you consider any home modification or adaptation, you should first have a functional assessment or evaluation completed. That way, you’ll have a better understanding of specific areas to address with any modifications. This will save you time and money in the long run by keeping you from doing modifications or buying equipment that may not be a good fit for your unique situation. 

Salazar also embraces newer technologies; “things like Google Nest and the like can send alerts to an individual’s phone. If the phone is set with light/vibration alerts, then this increases the odds that the individual will receive the alert and avoid harm,” says Salazar.

Now, the topic of home accessibility & safety can be rather technical,  confusing, and even intimidating for anyone looking at trying to help a loved one (or themselves) live safely in their home. And it can overwhelm people trying to navigate these waters for the first time. The best thing to do when considering technology and other tools in the home is to 1) make sure that the technology will easily fit into the person’s lifestyle and routines and 2) take the time to train or learn about the tools or technology you plan on putting in the home. Often times, the reason technology doesn’t help is because no one knows how to make it work properly. While you don’t need to be an IT genius, you should get a basic understanding of whatever device you plan to use. If and when it doesn’t work properly, you want to be able to do basic trouble-shooting yourself, so you don’t have to pay a tech to come in and fix it for you. 

If you, or a loved one has experienced recent falls in the home, or if you or a loved on is having difficulty getting around the home, then a Home Accessibility & Safety Assessment may help you plan for the future while making sure that safety, accessibility, and independence are maintained.

Now, this all starts with an initial conversation to see if this is even a good option for you. Contact us to learn more about our home accessibility & safety services.