Hearing Expo Puts Focus on Latest Tech for Deaf, Hearing Impaired

More than 50 people attended a free “Hearing Expo” at the Rockland Independent Living Center’s New City office. 

Companies like CapTel, CaptionCall and Sorenson Communications, as well as audiologists and speech-language pathologists presented and demonstrated the latest technologies -- including smart phone apps, video phones and devices. Noted speech-language pathologist and consultant Lynn Brown spoke to the standing-room-only crowd about communication strategies, theory and practice for persons with hearing loss.

George Hoehmann, CEO and executive director of RILC, said the organization is expanding its services to better meet the needs of people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Rockland. The agency offers monthly support groups open to all Deaf or Hard of Hearing persons; hearing screening days for the public and has recently begun classes in American Sign Language for interested community members.  

There are 8,400 residents who are deaf living in Rockland, according to New York State data. Applying national statistics, 34,000 adults in Rockland County have some degree of hearing loss, but only 6,800 of these people actually seek help.

RILC is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization run by and for people with all kinds of disabilities. Since 1987, the organization has been assisting and empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently and to participate in all aspects of community living.  

For more information about RILC’s hearing services and other programs visit http://www.rilc.org/ or Facebook, and call (845) 624-1366, TTY (845) 624-0847 or CapTel (845) 624-3053. RILC offices are located at 873 Route 45, Suite 108, New City, NY 10956.