HEARING/VISUAL IMPAIRMENT
Hearing Loss
Parallel to the 4 core services, this program is provided to people with hearing loss, including people who are deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, and deaf-blind. This program is designed to meet the needs of and increase the community options for persons who are deaf/hard-of-hearing/hearing-impaired. One component of this program is the interpreter referral program. AIM-CIL maintains an updated list of interpreters who are registered with the Illinois Deaf/Hard of Hearing Commission and who are certified by the State of Illinois. We support compliance with the Illinois Deaf/Hard of Hearing Commission’s requirements for qualified interpreters and offer resources to help meet these requirements. Support groups to provide educational and peer support for persons with hearing loss are an additional component of AIM-CIL’s Deaf Services Program. Further, sensitivity training can be provided and is aimed to enlighten the community on understanding and interacting with persons with hearing loss. In addition, the Deaf Services Program offers information and resources through catalogs, newspapers, magazines, and other resources on issues related to deafness. AIM-CIL is also an ITAC Amplified Phone Selection Center. If you are an Illinois resident who is certified with hearing loss, we can assist you with applying for a free amplified telephone. Please contact us for more information on how you can receive this free amplified telephone.
Visual Impairment
If you are blind or have low vision, we can help you learn the skills needed to maintain your independent lifestyle. We can show you many low vision aids and assistive devices, where to get them, and how to use them. In-home mobility training and tactile markings are provided. We can refer you to additional services such as community orientation and mobility training and guide dog services, if desired. The Center also assists with local recreation programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. All activities are provided with the help of the Northeast DuPage Special Recreation Association (NEDSRA)and the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA). They are open to anyone in DuPage County who is blind or visually impaired. For services or for more information, contact the Center.