Representative Adrian Hall presents free captioned telephones program to seniors

Representative Adrian Hall told the Senior Resident Advisory Committee that captioned telephones, which display typed text of a caller’s words for people with hearing loss, are available to eligible residents at no charge.

Hall said the devices work like a TV’s closed captions but for phone calls. “It is a phone that types out the words for people who have trouble hearing or understanding on the phone,” Hall said, adding that the service is “covered under state and federal funding” so there is no cost to users.

Why it matters: captioned phones can improve safety and independence for seniors who miss important calls or messages. Hall described several models — a touchscreen 2400, non-touch 840/880 models for people who prefer physical buttons, and a braille-adapted keyboard for users with combined hearing and vision loss — and said the phones offer amplified audio (about a 40-decibel gain), voicemail transcription and picture-based speed dials.

Hall outlined the application and installation process: applicants self-certify that they have hearing loss (no physician signature is required), choose a model, schedule an in-home installation and receive training. Some models require internet access; Hall said the company can provide a phone number if a landline is not available. Brochures and application forms will be left at the City Hall resource desk for residents to pick up.

Committee members asked whether there is an installation cost; Hall replied that there is none and reiterated that the program is funded by state and federal sources. He also emphasized U.S.-based manufacturing and 24/7 customer service.

No formal action was taken; Hall offered to follow up with residents and said he would provide contact information and materials for distribution through the City’s resource desk.