6 Telecommuting Tools for the Hearing Impaired





6 Tools People with Hearing Impairments Can Use When Telecommuting

 

If working from home appeals to you, now's the ideal time to interview. Increasingly, telecommuting has gained favor with employers since they save substantially in recruiting costs. Just like working in-house jobs for mildly disabled people, being hearing-impaired doesn't limit your ability to work remotely. With the following types of assistive technology, communication is simple.

1. TTY 

TTY stands for teletypewriter, also known as a text phone. The device resembles a typewriter, with a keyboard, display screen, and modem. TTY enables conversing with both hearing and hearing-impaired individuals. Like texting, the process begins with typing your message. When calling a person without a TTY, your message is conveyed via the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS). To complete your call, a TRS agent delivers your message verbally. TRS is available 24/7 by calling 7-1-1. There's no limit on call length or number of calls placed. Plus, the TRS service is free to people with hearing loss. 

When receiving a message on a TTY, the characters are converted to electrical signals, transmitted over a phone line. Once your message arrives, the signals are converted back to characters and displayed as text. Calls are announced by a flashing light on the machine or a vibrating wristband. When the other TTY user sends a message, you'll see it on your display. 

2. Speech-to-Text Apps

Among the vast number of apps designed for the hearing-impaired, here are some options well-suited to telecommuting: 

Sprint Relay Mobile IP 

Type your message, and the operator verbally conveys it to your recipient. Then, the operator types the response back to you. To make text more legible, you can adjust the font size and color. Plus, you can save conversations and place calls in Spanish through a translating operator. Sprint Relay is free for both Android and iOS devices. 

Pedius 

This app uses voice recognition and synthesis software to translate speech into text. To place a call, type your message, and the app converts it to speech, using a computerized voice. When your caller responds, the app translates the spoken words into text. Pedius is free for Android and iOS devices. 

Ava 

You might use this app if your job requires you to split flextime between your home and a corporate office. Ava is an on-demand translator for both individual and group conversations, with privacy guaranteed. 

3. iPhone Voicemail Transcription

With an iPhone 6s or later model, you can access Voicemail Transcription. This default feature transcribes audio messages into text. Although the transcription may not be entirely identical to the audio recording, you'll get the gist of the message.

4. Videophone 

If you use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate, obtain a videophone. When you place calls to individuals who can hear, a sign language interpreter translates your messages. In return, the video interpreter signs responses back to you. 

Interpretation is provided free through government-funded Video Relay Services (VRS). Interpreters are fluent in ASL, English, and Spanish. Regular telephone users can contact you by calling a VRS Center, typically through a toll-free number. To use a videophone, you need a computer with a high-speed Internet connection and a video camera.

5. ClearCaptions

ClearCaptions is a free, nationwide captioning service for people with hearing loss. Like television captioning, phone conversations are displayed as screen text. ClearCaptions is available for use on Android and iOS smartphones, tablets, web browsers, and the Clarity Ensemble, a company-issued phone. This technology utilizes voice recognition software and a TRS operator who converts speech into captions and sends them to your chosen device. ClearCaptions is free to qualified hearing-impaired individuals in the U.S., paid by the Federal Communications Commission. To be eligible for ClearCaptions, your hearing loss must be certified by a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist. After submitting the completed form and becoming registered, you can download the app from Google Play or the App Store. 

6. Phone Amplification Devices

Amplifiers raise incoming call volume while clarifying speech. With so many kinds of amplifiers available, the guidance of an audiologist may be helpful in making a choice. Here are some popular designs: 

In-Line Amplifier 

This small unit, equipped with two ports, works on a corded phone. One end connects to the handset, while the other hooks up to the base. The amplifier boosts specific frequencies, refining speech and making similar words more discernible. Additionally, the device blocks background noises and feedback. Some in-line amplifiers enable the user to adjust voice tone. 

Portable Amplifier 

This gadget accommodates corded and some cordless phones, and it straps onto a handset earpiece, improving speech clarity and increasing volume. Portable amplifiers are lightweight and battery-powered, with adjustable straps and carrying pouches. Most units are inexpensive. Since a portable amplifier can travel with you, it's handy if your job requires part-time work in a corporate office. Some portables create a loop signal, making them compatible with a hearing aid on a "T" setting. 

Dedicated Amplifier Telephone 

This is a complete phone, enabling you to adjust the volume and tone to your liking, either with sliding levers, a dial, or handset button. Additional features may include Caller ID, noise reduction, echo cancellation, and a speakerphone. Flashing lights signal incoming calls. Dedicated phones are available in both corded and cordless styles. 

ADA Regulations

Several laws mandate that employers make reasonable accommodations for disabled employees. Among the rulings are Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Accommodations include free assistive technology and services that enable the performance of essential job duties. The laws apply to companies employing 15 or more people. 

You can request assistive devices when applying for a job and any time after being hired. There are no stipulations regarding types of equipment. To obtain equipment, present your wishes to your supervisor. You can do this in person or in writing, or the request can be made on your behalf by a coworker, family member, or healthcare professional. After agreeing on what the firm will provide, document your discussion and the agreement terms. Note that employers are exempt from buying equipment that would cause them undue hardship, such as steep costs.

 

There are many jobs for individuals with disabilities such as hearing impairments, and you may find just what you’re looking for among the job listings provided by disABLEDperson, Inc. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 760-420-1269.