Assistive Devices and Resources Hub

The Tri-County Office on Aging’s disability services page is an Assistive Devices and Resources Hub that compiles, in one place, the assistive technology and disability supports available to residents of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. It is a practical directory for caregivers helping a loved one who is living with hearing loss, vision loss, or other disabilities.

The hub is organized by need. For hearing loss, it lists commercial hearing centers, free captioned telephone service through CapTel, the Michigan Relay Service (dial 7-1-1), and financial-assistance programs such as the Hear Now Program and the Lions of Michigan Foundation. For vision loss, it points to the Braille and Talking Book Library, the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons, NFB-NEWSLINE (400+ free publications by phone or app), and the WKAR Radio Reading Service. For broader disability support, it connects to Disability Network Capital Area — which offers independent-living information and assistive technology demonstrations — and to disability-parking information and applications.

This resource matters because assistive technology can be transformative for independence and safety, yet many caregivers don’t know these tools and assistance programs exist or how to access them. A curated, region-specific hub removes that barrier and saves hours of searching. TCOA notes the listings are compiled as a courtesy and do not imply endorsement, so families should verify details with each provider. Caregivers can reach TCOA at (517) 887-1440 or visit its Lansing office for help.