A new free course will help older adults and their caregivers adapt to combined hearing and vision loss through adaptive technology.

This online course from Helen Keller Services explores how adaptive devices, software, and simple apps can optimize remaining hearing and/or vision. These technologies can also provide access in an alternative mode to help older adults navigate everyday tasks. Current technologies are user-friendly, and many can be accessed without purchasing new equipment.

Confident Living with Hearing and Vision Technology: A Resource for Older Adults with Combined Hearing and Vision Loss will enable students to do the following:

• Better understand hearing and vision loss and best identify their needs.
• Develop an awareness of technology that is currently available and may be helpful.
• Understand the roles of various providers of services that can help with choosing and obtaining technology.

The course includes three modules: Being an Informed Consumer, Reading, and Hearing.

Modules also include guidance on how to create an action plan. The Consumer Technology Association provided funding for this resource.