Clarity offers new amplified telephone at no cost for people with hearing loss

Oct 9 2009

Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI), the non-profit distributor of specialized telecommunications equipment for people with hearing loss and speech disabilities, is offering a new amplified telephone developed by Clarity, a division of Plantronics, at no cost to seniors and others with hearing loss. The Clarity W425 Pro cordless telephone amplifies incoming sounds up to 45 dB.

Permanent Florida residents who are certified as having a hearing loss can easily obtain the W425 Pro by completing an application and visiting one of FTRI's 22 conveniently located distribution centers throughout the state. For more information, call FTRI at 1-800-222-3448 or visit www.ftri.org.

"FTRI aims to provide individuals with hearing loss a telephone solution like the Clarity W425 Pro," said James Forstall, FTRI's executive director. "The majority of the people we serve are senior citizens and the Clarity W425 Pro is a device that may assist them with communicating with others on the telephone."

FTRI estimates that nearly three million Floridians experience some degree of hearing loss.

Along with amplification technology, the W425 Pro contains large backlit numbers, a bright visual ringer, is hearing aid compatible and is TIA-1083 Compliant.

"FTRI is an outstanding program which helps so many people throughout Florida," said Carsten Trads, president of Clarity. "Hearing loss is a serious, yet often overlooked issue. Many people are not aware that solutions like amplified telephones even exist. Thanks to FTRI, hopefully more people in Florida will take the necessary steps to address their hearing loss and consider using amplified telephones."

SOURCE: Clarity, a division of Plantronics