DHHSD offers free training to help you learn about hearing loss. Training is typically 90 minutes to two hours, and can be conducted in person or virtually. The format and the length of some training can be tailored to meet your needs.
Topics are described in the next section, Group training topics. To learn more or to request a training, please contact us.
One in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74, and one in two adults ages 75 and older have a hearing loss significant enough to make communicating a challenge. The impacts of age-related hearing loss may be profound and life changing when left untreated. During this training, you will learn about issues associated with hearing loss and correlation between untreated hearing loss and other health conditions. Also, you will learn how to address hearing loss, explore types of assistive technology, communication strategies, and discover communication accommodations that are available for age-related hearing loss.
Are you curious about American Sign Language (ASL)? This introductory class gives you an overview of ASL. You will explore reading facial expressions and body language. We will demonstrate a few basic signs and phrases that you can use to communicate with people who use ASL. You will also learn where to find more resources and classes.
This training introduces you to the Deaf community, its history, values, norms, and traditions. All cultures, including Deaf culture, have four components: language, behavioral norms, values, and traditions. You will explore the language and communication needs of people who are deaf in family settings, on the job and in everyday life. You will also gain useful strategies and tools for engaging with people who are deaf and hard of hearing.
Did you know that ignoring hearing loss can lead to other health issues? In this training, you will learn more about the risks associated with untreated hearing loss and what you can do to reduce the risks. This training details four steps people with hearing loss can take to address their hearing loss: getting an accurate diagnosis, choosing the right assistive technology, developing communication strategies and using communication accommodations.
One in five Minnesotans, or 20%, experience some degree of hearing loss. This percentage increases to 33% for people ages 65-74 and 50% for people ages 75 and older. In this training, we discuss the differences between major hearing loss sub-groups; the impacts and prevalent issues for individuals with hearing loss; communication strategies to communicate effectively with people who have hearing loss; Deaf culture; assistive technology for people with hearing loss; and services and resources for people who have hearing loss.
This presentation introduces the services we provide and how we can help. You will learn more about hearing loss, including who is affected by hearing loss, what can happen if hearing loss goes untreated, and how to recognize potential hearing loss. This presentation will also share effective communication strategies and various assistive technology and resources available for people with hearing loss.
Do you have clients, family or friends who struggle hearing on the phone? The TED Program offers free presentations to service providers and/or community groups. The presentation explains what services could benefit you, what assistive phone devices are available to meet your needs and how to receive a free device. You will also learn how these assistive devices can support independence, safety and communication with family, friends and others. Each presentation is tailored to the audience.
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division (DHHSD) can provide customized trainings on these and other topics related to hearing loss and communication access. Contact us to discuss topics and length to meet your needs.
We also offer regular webinars! See our News and Events page for details about current webinars.
