Perkins and iCanConnect Offer Free Communication Tools, Training for Deaf-Blind Individuals

AARP Massachusetts and Perkins School for the Blind want to help those afflicted with vision and hearing loss stay connected to family and friends through an innovative free program called iCanConnect.

It’s estimated that 1 million Americans suffer with both hearing and vision loss. That’s where iCanConnect comes in, playing a key role in fostering communication with family and friends—a priority at every stage of life, but especially for those 50+ with hearing and vision challenges.

iCanConnect, which began last year, handles the state-level implementation of the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), which is organized and funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This program provides free modern telecommunication tools—and the training necessary to use them—to low income persons with significant combined hearing and vision loss.

Through iCanConnect, the NDBEDP has partnered with state-level organizations for the deaf and blind to distribute the equipment and arrange the necessary training. In Massachusetts, the iCan Connect state partner is Perkins School for the Blind.

For more information and to determine eligibility, visit  iCanConnect or by call 1-800-825-4595 | TTY 1-888-320-2656.

*This is not an AARP program. Any information you provide to the host organization will be governed by its privacy policy.