HKNC Older Adult Program
Older adults with combined hearing and vision loss comprise the largest group of people who are DeafBlind in the United States. Yet, many of them remain unserved or underserved. Often, these adults don’t think of themselves as “DeafBlind.”
Overview
The HKNC Older Adult Program envisions a world where every older adult with combined hearing and vision loss has the opportunity to age in place with dignity and independence by:
- directly accessing education or services
- interfacing with caregivers informed on combined hearing and vision loss
- receiving services from a professional trained in combined hearing and vision loss
HKNC offers specialized services to individuals who are experiencing a combined loss of hearing and vision, their families and the professionals that serve them.
Our older adult specialist and 11 HKNC regional representatives are available to provide information about resources and training opportunities that are available to them locally and nationally.
Confident Living Program
Are you a DeafBlind older adult? Are you an older adult facing new challenges due to combined hearing and vision loss? HKNC’s Confident Living Programs, co-designed by older adults with combined vision and hearing loss, help you maintain an independent lifestyle. During our virtual and onsite programs, you’ll have opportunities to:
Learn about the latest in assistive technology.
Learn strategies to help you take care of your home, prepare for emergencies, travel safely, enjoy leisure activities and more.
Find out about services and resources that are available to you.
Interact with people who know exactly what you are going through.
Caregiver Support
Are you a family member concerned about your loved one? Do you work with older adults at a long-term care facility or as an in-home service provider? HKNC provides support to caregivers who support older adults, including information on understanding hearing and vision loss, how to respectfully communicate, assistive technology solutions, and daily living accommodations that can increase independence and overall wellbeing.
Advocacy and Education
The older adult specialist makes presentations at local and national conferences, offers workshops across the country and collaborates with government and nonprofit organizations to help cultivate a greater understanding of the abilities and needs of older adults who are experiencing a combined loss of hearing and vision.
For more information about the Helen Keller National Center Older Adult Program, contact Jenee Alleman, Older Adult Specialist: jalleman@helenkeller.org
Older Adult Resources
Discover a wealth of tools, tips, and connections tailored to address the specific needs of older adults with combined hearing and vision loss. Learn about accessible technologies, adaptive communication methods, supportive organizations, and more.
Helen Keller National Center (HKNC)’s Resources
At Helen Keller National Center (HKNC), we create our own internal resources for older adults.
External Resources
Explore topics such as assistive technology, household and independent living products, caregiving support, housing resources, and legal services. Resources suited for older adults with combined hearing and vision loss.