52 minute read
Residential setting options
Family Matters
Residential Setting Options: Choosing the Best Fit
By Andrew Kruse, CESP, director of business operations and residential services at UCP of Greater Cleveland Making the decision to transition from a family home into a residential care setting can be daunting for individuals with disabilities and their families. It is important to have all the facts in order to make the choice that best fits your lifestyle.
STEP 1: Choose your setting
There are two main options for living arrangements depending on care needs or level of independence.
Waiver homes, or group homes, have varying levels of support depending on your needs and can range from one bedroom apartments to eight-bed homes. Individuals can receive drop-in services or up to 24-hour support. Residents are responsible for their own bills, including utilities, rent, food and other expenses. A case manager is assigned to each individual by the county board of developmental disabilities.
An intermediate care facility (ICF) is the most intensive community-based residential setting; it is operated 24 hours a day and includes nursing support. An ICF is occupied by five or more individuals who have high medical and/or behavioral needs. The service provider is responsible for all aspects of a resident’s life, including medical care, food, utilities, living space, transportation and day programming. A dedicated case manager coordinates each resident’s care.
STEP 2: Choose your service provider
Choosing the right provider is key to a healthy living situation. A large, established agency with multiple supports will have specialized training, a greater number of staff and may also provide day and/or job training services. A smaller, independent provider may only have one staff member per home, which may limit support; however, this arrangement may offer you a more personal relationship.
STEP 3: Plan your transition
To plan for a successful transition to residential living, you must understand the level of support the home and/or provider offers and ensure it is the best match based not only on care but also on comfort. Before making a decision, be sure to take multiple tours of the home and plan visits and outings with potential housemates to determine compatibility.
Residential living options for individuals with disabilities are offered in varying sizes and levels of support, which allows for a personalized fit. The decision should be carefully planned out so you can have the best possible life experience.
The founders of LiveSpecial.com, Elaine Eisner and Scott Gohn, tell us how the resource is evolving. They also give an update on their daughter, Alana, who was the inspiration for LiveSpecial.com.
Elaine Eisner and Scott Gohn, of Solon, spearheaded the LiveSpecial.com project with National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland in 2012 with the hope of providing resources to people with disabilities and their families.
Their daughter, Alana, who was diagnosed with microcephaly as an infant, was the inspiration for the project, which now features more than 1,400 providers on LiveSpecial.com. The project has partnered with organizations for programs and events, and launched the annual print magazine in 2015. The dedicated and passionate Livepecial.com coordinator Wendy Spitz and NCJW/CLE volunteers like Cindy Glazer, Laura Kuntz, Nessa Siegel and more have helped to drive the couple’s vision of bringing families and resources together.
We talked to Elaine and Scott about the progress of LiveSpecial.com, the special needs community, being an advocate and tips for parents.
Q: What type of progress have you seen in services for the special needs community in Northeast Ohio and beyond?
Scott and Elaine: The more that LiveSpecial.com and other organizations show a presence in our community, the more opportunities are created for the special needs community. From special hours at public places to quiet rooms at sporting events, these all grow based on the community’s concerted efforts to bring awareness to what is possible. What we have learned is that if you ask for something — a special viewing with Santa at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium or a sensoryfriendly show at Cleveland Playhouse — that everyone is more than willing to create an environment for inclusion. We have come so far, but there is always work to be done so that one day we do not have to ask for these accommodations and they are just part of the everyday culture.
Q: How do you think LiveSpecial.com has expanded beyond your vision of an online forum?
Scott and Elaine: The primary objective of LiveSpecial.com was to connect individuals with service providers. The database has grown over the years, but what was learned was that families are thirsting for information and personal interaction. Over the years, LiveSpecial.com has sponsored and collaborated on hundreds of educational programs. In addition, it produces an annual publication that reaches thousands of families. The total of LiveSpecial.com has provided vast knowledge to families and allowed them to find resources to advocate for their loved ones.
Q: What tips can you provide for new parents who are still struggling to get a diagnosis or find providers?
Scott: Alana’s initial diagnosis took over 6 years and her final diagnosis has yet to be determined. The “why” Alana is the way she is was important to Elaine and me in the early years because we wanted to know what therapies or treatments would be beneficial to her growth. However, we quickly learned the why does not matter; what matters most is securing all therapies and resources available. Reach out and ask another parent what works for them, ask teachers, ask therapists, always be inquisitive and ask for help. This again goes back to advocating for your loved one. As they said in school, there is no dumb question except the one you did not ask.
Q: While working on our first issue of LiveSpecial.com Magazine in 2015, we met your daughter, Alana, She was 6 years old at that time and we’ve since covered many aspects of her life, like theater, skiing, swimming and her connections with friends at school. Tell us what she is doing today and about her growth over these years.
Scott: Alana was progressing very well and then March 2020 came along. The pandemic hit everyone, and Alana was not immune to this. We are blessed that Alana is a highly social kiddo and was surrounded by many friends who enjoyed interacting with her. The pandemic was difficult because that socialization abruptly ended. What was heartbreaking to Elaine and me was that there was no way to communicate to Alana why she wasn’t going to school or having play dates with her friends. We are not special here and realize this was a very difficult time for all families and individuals with disabilities. Elaine: Now that things are opening, she can see her friends, swim, and get back out into the community again. It is wonderful to see her interact again with her peers (probably because she is sick and tired of playing with Mommy and Daddy). As we write this she is away at overnight camp. She also grew enough in size so that she can go to waterparks — yes, she loves the big slides. She still loves anything to do with fish and water. Skiing is her winter sport, and she can now ski without being tethered to an instructor. The next adventure is tandem biking with us.
Q: What have you learned about being Alana’s advocate?
Scott and Elaine: Don’t ever give up, don’t ever take no for an answer, and don’t ever underestimate the will power of a child. When Alana was an infant, we were told to put her into a home, to make other arrangements and to move on with our lives. We were told that Alana would never swallow, stand or communicate. She has proven every one of those doctors wrong and continues to grow. Nothing makes us prouder than when Alana achieves a goal, overcomes an obstacle or reaches a new milestone. It sometimes takes months, or even years, for a goal to be met, but there is nothing more satisfying than seeing an achievement by kiddo who was told they could not succeed.
Q: What tips can you share for new parents who are still finding their voice in this community?
Elaine: Get involved and get engaged. You will find that many people in the special needs community are willing to help. You are not alone, and you do not have to try and recreate the wheel. If you need help or are looking for a resource, just ask. You will get many opinions; some will resonate with you and others will not. It is OK to try something and realize it does not work. It’s better to try than think, “If only I had tried.” No matter where you live, if your child has a diagnosis, register with your county health department — they have more resources that you might not know about. Make sure to get a support administrator through the county. You have to push for inclusion and therapies in your school district. If your child is on an IEP, find a professional (to help navigate the process) to make sure you are getting everything.
NCJWCLE
STRONG WOMEN POWERFUL VOICES
Nominate your CHAMPION today by submitting this application and the reason why this person is a CHAMPION.
“How My Nominee is Living Like a CHAMPION with a Disability” OR “How My Nominee Makes a Difference for CHAMPIONS Living with a Disability” Please nominate individuals in one of these categories:
• AGE 3 – 10 * • AGE 11 – 17 * • AGE 18 – 25 * • AGE 26 & OVER * • CAREGIVER | EDUCATOR | ADVOCATE
*Parent or caregiver may assist in the completion of the nomination.
APPLICATION DEADLINE February 2, 2022
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS AWARDS CHAMPIONS will be recognized at the awards dinner
Spring 2022
Date:TBD
Gold Medal CHAMPIONS and a friend will be our guest at the awards dinner. Each Gold Medalist CHAMPION will receive a personalized award and $500 towards an approved program, service, or adaptive device. Silver and Bronze CHAMPIONS will also be recognized.
** All entries become the property of NCJW/Cleveland and will not be returned. Submitting an entry grants permission for your entry to be publicized by NCJW/Cleveland whether it is judged to be a winning submission or not. Award recipients’ names and photographs may be used in publicity efforts.
Nominate your CHAMPION today by submitting this application (on the back of this page)
NCJWCLE
STRONG WOMEN POWERFUL VOICES
NOMINATION FORM
Nominee Name _________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ City _________________________________________________ State/Zip _________________________________________________ Telephone ________________________________ E-mail ________________________________ Date of Birth ________________________________ Age __________ School/Employer _________________________________________________
Your name (if different from nominee) __________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ City _________________________________________________ State/Zip _________________________________________________ Telephone ___________________________ E-mail _________________________________ Your relationship to the nominee ____________________________________
Please attach on a separate sheet the reason why your nominee is a CHAMPION.
AGREEMENTS
Parent/Guardian Permission: I give my permission for my child/ward to participate. Signature _______________________________________ Relationship ____________________ Date _________
I grant NCJW/Cleveland permission to use my picture/picture of my child for their public relations purposes. Signature _______________________________________ Date ___________________________
SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION FORM
U.S. Mail
The LiveSpecial.com Awards Celebration of Champions C/O NCJW/Cleveland 26055 Emery Road, Unit L Warrensville Hts., OH 44128
Fax
The LiveSpecial.com Awards Celebration of Champions (216) 378-2205
Champion@NCJWcleveland.org
For more information contact Cindy Glazer: Champion@NCJWcleveland.org For more information call 216-378-2204
Making PROGRESS
For people with disabilities, the Americans with Disabilities Act, passed into law in 1990, was a stepping stone for progress. It prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in areas including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications and access to state and local programs.There have been strides in the community with each generation, but change and advocacy still need to keep moving forward.
“I think the driving force for progress is in advocacy,” says Amanda Stohrer, MS, OTR/L, ATP, occupational therapy manager and assistive technology professional at LeafBridge Center of Excellence at UCP of Greater Cleveland. “Children, their parents, and adults with disabilities are advocating strongly for change. They are educating themselves, leaning into their support networks, and joining forces to make their voices louder. This is what it is going to take — lots more of this!”
Here are highlights that are progressing in the right direction for all ages and all abilities.
Technology
Communication plays an important role for all, but especially for people with disabilities. It allows them to access important resources and tools. It also provides opportunities to connect with others.
“Overall, technology has had a positive impact on people with disabilities,” says Rebecca Guenther, MA CCC-SLP, ATP, speech-language pathologist supervisor at LeafBridge Center of Excellence at UCP of Greater Cleveland. “As technology becomes a mainstream staple in our world, I think we have seen many positive effects on all people. It’s the norm to carry a tablet or phone. Tech is ‘cool’ and no longer seen as something that stands out in a crowd or is a stigma.
“When I started in the field, it seemed anything designed for ‘people with disabilities’ was big, bulky, expensive and sort of difficult to manage,” she adds. “Now, there are more seamlessly integrated technology supports that all people can utilize. Phones and tablets have built-in features or apps that support communication, vision, reading and writing, just to name a few. These tools are easily available and more affordable than ever. I think as technology, in general, continues to progress, we will continue to see more opportunities for people with disabilities.”
Stohrer says there is a growing awareness of accessibility.
“We have seen the label of ‘accessibility’ added to common use devices like cell phones and laptops,” she says. “That shows us that people are at least thinking about it. The learning curve can be steep and it often requires skilled intervention to assess, trial, and set up the technology. We haven’t seen enough growth in coverage for these types of services. Without assessment and training, even if the physical device is available, it makes it inaccessible for most individuals.”
Guenther adds that progress is much faster when the technology benefits the general population.
“When technology is seen as beneficial for the general population (ie. iPads/apps), it is often much more accessible and affordable,” she says. “When a tool or product is deemed as a ‘special needs’ product, it becomes tied to higher costs and requires many more insurance hoops to jump through to obtain. Savvy advocates are needed to assist others in obtaining the tools and technology that should be a given.”
By Angela Gartner
Accessible Services
For people with disabilities, there has been movement in ensuring access to certain resources such as sensory kits, special events and programs.
Programs like Connecting for Kids have helped library systems create adapted programs across Northeast Ohio.
“They are not just offering more adapted programs, but many are training everyone on the staff, from librarians to custodians, on how to be more welcoming and inclusive to people with disabilities,” says Sarah Rintamaki, Executive Director at Connecting for Kids. “Libraries are an integral part of the community making sure people with disabilities are warmly welcomed. It’s an important step forward in greater Cleveland. They want them to get engaged and participate in these (programs), by doing that, (people with disabilities) are participating in the community.”
Other organizations have spearheaded programs in sporting venues, zoos and more to provide more inclusive, sensoryfriendly zones for people with disabilities.
Transportation
According to the ADA National Network, in 1991, “the Department of Transportation issued regulations mandating accessible public transit vehicles and facilities. The regulations include requirements that all new, fixedroute public transit buses be accessible and that supplementary paratransit services be provided for those individuals with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route bus service.”
People like Donna Prease, who was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a bone disorder, had the ability to make recommendations to the Greater Regional Transit Authority. She also has advocated for transportation for people with disabilities in Ohio and other states.
“We were on the ADA committee and looked at drawings of stations to make recommendations and see what needs to be fixed to be compliant,” she says. “We are thankful for the ADA for paratransit, door-todoor and all the (transportations services) that help accommodate people with disabilities.”
However, work still needs to continue in order to help everyone who needs reliable and easily accessible transportation. One concern, according to Prease, is funding.
While she says she is able to schedule transportation, there are people who are unable to drive and are not able to do basic things such as grocery shopping. “It’s depressing,” Prease says. “(They) want to go out in the community.” F or Debbie Picker, who has two children with Down syndrome, and is an advocate, founder of FARE-Cle, a supplemental transportation service for people with disabilities, and the Medical Outreach coordinator at the Up Side of Downs of Northeast Ohio, she feels opportunities for employment and independent living are important.
In 2009, she piloted an independent home for her son Jeremy, where he lives with roommates under the supervision of the families and other community services.
She says they used the technology that was readily available to support the house. Since then, other families in the area have asked for help to set up homes.
For employment, she says it’s exciting that the Up Side of Downs is a community partner of the Employment Collaborative of Cuyahoga County, which organizes hiring events matching area businesses who have job openings with people with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome.
She feels the attitude toward acceptance and inclusion has changed.
“Society is more accepting of people with disabilities in the workplace and in their communities .”
Rebecca (Becky) Ravas, PT, MS, physical therapy manager at LeafBridge Center of Excellence at UCP of Greater Cleveland says she has seen pre-employment programs that train youth while they are in high school.
However, she adds that while it's fantastic for youth, the population that is getting left out is the population of individuals who need a personal attendant for daily care.
Picker says more support is needed (such as funding, transportation and job coaches) so their adult family members can continue to work in community jobs.
Stohrer adds that inclusive experiences are beginning to emerge, but they are still in very early phases.
“There are certain presentations of disabilities that our society is more prepared to accommodate,” she says. “Then there are still others that we have made very little progress with. Technology is a big piece of this. Technology devices and services need to be made available to bridge this gap for more people.”
Ravas, says mobility — specifically power mobility — is promoted to younger individuals as there is research that correlates early mobility with social development and learning. “The standard walker has changed to include seats, all terrain wheels, an increased variety of arm prompts, and an increased variety of body weight support walkers that allow more individuals to experience self-mobility,” she says. “Ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs were designed for adults with spinal cord injuries. However, more children and young adults with neuromuscular impairments are utilizing this technology and manufacturers are designing more options for youth.
“Power mobility is finally evolving to do more than just take someone from
Mobility
point A to point B,” she says. “Using technology that is already in office chairs and automobiles, power mobility has critical components that include seat elevate, power-supported standing, and smart technology to reduce tipping, falls and collisions. Advancements have made self-directed mobility accessible to more individuals. An individual who cannot walk should have more options than sitting in one position to move about.”
“Mobility devices have become more sophisticated, responding to the demands of each unique user,” Stohrer says. “They are more rugged, more adaptable, more customizable, and offer additional features that allow the user to access even more areas of their environment.”
Electric wheelchairs and other mobility products in homes, the upkeep of those devices and ensuring everyone finds their right device is important to the community of people with disabilities. While there have been many advances in these devices, it still isn't affordable or accessible to everyone.
“Nothing would change without families,” Picker says. “We are building on the successes of the work of people who came before us.”
Outside! Let’s Go
Check out these inclusive playgrounds, camps and other outdoor activities for all ages and abilities.
By Lindsey Geiss
Finding outdoor activities or play spaces suitable for all ages and abilities can be challenging; and, moreover, not every child freely tries new things. In fact, visiting someplace new can be downright daunting for families with sensory, physical or other special needs.
To enjoy an outing, it’s important to know what to expect and have a plan. We’ve cultivated a list of outdoor experiences that are meant to be barrier-free and welcoming to all through wheelchair-accessible, sensory-friendly, adapted and/or other special features.
Some are organized programs or venues that charge admission, while others are free for self-directed exploration.
ASHTABULA COUNTY
ASHTABULA COUNTY METROPARKS
With over 1,200 acres of publicly accessible parkland throughout Ashtabula County, the park district manages 30 miles of paved, ADA accessible greenway and bike trails with many starting and stopping points providing different experiences. The Western Reserve Greenway is a paved rail-trail extending 44 miles through Ashtabula and Trumbull counties. For families looking to return to the same point where they began, Friends of Conneaut Creek Metropark (27 Blakeslee Road) features a paved loop trail with benches, and Red Brook Metropark (4338 Lake Road W., Saybrook Twp.) has three miles of paved trails, beautiful forests, meadows and floodplain protecting two miles of Red Brook. Visit the park, or go to ashtabulametroparks.com for virtual events.
CUYAHOGA COUNTY
ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS’ CAMP CHEERFUL
Set in the Metroparks’ Mill Stream Run Reservation, which features paved trails, the camp offers registrationonly recreation programs and camps for children and adults with physical, developmental and sensory disabilities. Year-round therapeutic horsemanship classes (age 4 to adult) utilize an indoor arena and outdoor trails with a sensory trail. Adapted sports (age 7 to adult) include baseball, football, indoor soccer and wheelchair basketball (year-round). Various day, weekend and overnight camps are offered. Camp programs for ages 5 through adult run year-round and include such activities as arts and crafts, sports, hiking, nature study, campfires and water activities (weather permitting), including fishing, canoeing, hiking and swimming. Registration for Camp Cheerful Summer Day Camp for children with or without special needs Adult Weekend Day Camps for individuals ages 18 and older who have graduated high school. The River Rock Adult Day Program is an activity for adults with disabilities that offers gardening and landscaping, nature trails and education, horsemanship activities, daily exercise and more. Age and other requirements vary by program. campcheerful.achievementcenters.org
Check out LiveSpecial.com for more activities and adapted programs.
CLEVELAND METROPARKS
The park’s 18 reservations spanning more than 24,000 acres — with more than 300 miles of trails, eight golf courses, eight lakefront parks and zoo — include a number of paved accessible trails, such as a 1.7-mile loop at Acacia Reservation in Lyndhurst (Clubhouse offers handcycling for ages 10 and over). Rocky River Stables (19901 Puritas Ave., Cleveland) offers therapeutic horseback riding programs, and Hinckley Lake Boathouse offers adaptive kayaking for ages 12 and older. The new Lindsey Family Play Space at Lakefront Reservation near the Upper Edgewater Picnic Shelter offers a play area with wood chip surface accessed by a paved trail. It features sensory aspects and a range of nature play opportunities, including boulders, water and sand, as well as climbing structures (wood, rope, etc.), a tunnel and shaded areas. clevelandmetroparks.com
CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO
The zoo has KultureCity sensory inclusive certification, and offers tools and information for guests with sensory needs, including sensory bags available at the Guest Services Resource Center, six “quiet zones” and several “headphone zones” on a map denoting where loud noises are present. While all areas of the zoo and rainforest are wheelchair accessible, the free tram service and paid wheelchair rentals or weekend golf cart cruises offer added mobility options. The new Eagle Zip Adventure ride, which boards on the platform next to Wade Hall, takes seated, strapped-in guests backward over Waterfowl Lake up 150 feet above the zoo before pausing at the top and releasing them for a The structure for ages 5-12 includes multiple slides, climbing structures and spinners on a poured rubber surface, plus two racing zip lines. The ages 2-5 area includes multiple slides and climbing structures, accessible sand and water tables (you may bring toys for play), musical panels and a spinner. The Liberty Station building has restrooms. 6363 Selig Blvd., Independence, independenceohio.org
LYNDHURST PARK
This newly remodeled playground near the city pool has more accessible and interactive features. There is a zip line with strap-in seat, an accessible swing set and paved walkway leading to a ramp with music tone toy, among other features. The site retains wood chip flooring for now. 1331 Parkview Drive, lyndhurst-oh.com
PRESTON’S H.O.P.E. PLAYGROUND
Open daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. April through October, this sprawling, fenced public playground has an assortment of activities for all ages and abilities. Given its size, unless a child is older and can be alone without supervision, a one adult to one child ratio is recommended. 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood, prestonshope.com
YOUTH CHALLENGE
Youth Challenge offers year-round adapted sports and recreational programming at no charge throughout the Greater Cleveland area for children with disabilities. Participants are paired up at each program with a trained teenage volunteer. Transportation is available on a limited basis via a fleet of lift-equipped vans. youthchallengesports.com
thrilling 700-foot zip ride back down to the starting platform, reaching speeds up to 35 mph. The family-friendly experience accommodates two riders per car with minimum rider height of 42” with a paying adult or 48” to ride alone. clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo. A zoo social story is available at summitdd.org.
CLEVELAND METROPARKS BEACH WHEELCHAIRS
Huntington and Edgewater beaches offer all-terrain wheelchairs with balloon tires and 360-degree casters for navigation through sand. They are free to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis when lifeguards are on duty (11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily), the first Saturday in June through the second Sunday in August, then weekends through Labor Day. Euclid Beach Park offers such wheelchairs on weekends.
EMPOWER SPORTS
Sports and exercise programs are offered at low or no cost for children and adults with various physical and cognitive disabilities. Clinics help build skills and league programs give athletes with special needs the chance to play alongside typically-functioning peers. Seasonal activities include outdoor softball and indoor basketball, fitness and yoga. empowersports.org
FOREST HILL PARK PLAYGROUND
Located just north of the Cleveland Heights Community Center, this historic urban park, once part of John D. Rockefeller’s estate, features playground equipment, picnic shelters, restrooms, baseball fields, a multipurpose path, a meadow and nature trails, and is bordered by the dugway creek. The new inclusive playground has equipment for 5- to 12-year-olds and is intended for all abilities with appropriate swing sets and seating, and a wood-fiber mulch surface. The Forest Hill all-purpose pathway connects the East Cleveland and Cleveland Heights sections of the park. 2370 Lee Blvd., Cleveland Heights, chparks.com
LIBERTY PLAYGROUND
There are three playgrounds in the Elmwood Park area, but the most popular is Liberty Playground (west of the Civic Center between Safety Town area and Kiwanis Pavilion).
GEAUGA COUNTY
GEAUGA JOGGERS & WALKERS
Twice monthly, the group jogs and walks on the scenic trails of the Geauga Park District and local neighborhoods like Burton, Chagrin Falls and Chardon. Participants need to register and sign a waiver available at the Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities Metzenbaum Center, and those with extraordinary needs or concerns must be accompanied by a family member or caregiver. During November and December, the group moves indoors for yoga, boxing, dance or conditioning.
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT
Geauga Park District manages more than 10,500 acres in 27 open parks and preserves, and its mission includes providing outdoor recreational experiences to residents of every age, every ability and at all times of the year. For example, the Beartown Lakes Reservation Lake Trail (18870 Quinn Rd, Chagrin Falls) is a 0.7-mile asphalt loop around Lower Bear lake with fishing platforms, and Observatory Park (10610 Clay Street, Montville Twsp) features six accessible fine gravel trails, interactive planetary pods, human sun dial and life-sized Great Pyramid cornerstones near an astronomical station. geaugaparkdistrict.org
LAKE COUNTY
LAKE HEALTH MIRACLE FIELD AND LUBRIZOL MIRACLE LEAGUE PLAYGROUND
Individuals with special needs can play baseball in a safe, welcoming environment. The sports complex, located next to Lake County Captains Stadium, features an accessible, latexfree rubberized turf field accompanied by an adaptive and wheelchair-accessible playground with ramps, climbing activities, slides, musical items and a seated zip line, as well as concessions. Visit miracleleagueoflakecounty.org or contact Mike Piper at MLofLakeCounty@ gmail.com or 440-497-6846.
LAKE METROPARKS
With more than 60 miles of trails and 35+ parks, there’s plenty to explore, including portions of two state designated wild and scenic rivers — and many tributaries. Recreational and educational experiences are provided by diverse facilities. Seasonal adapted experiences are offered and include such activities as archery, Fairport lighthouse history craft and hike, and craft-raft races. The Metroparks also encourages people with special needs to mainstream into any of their program offerings. Special Olympics sports offered by Lake Metroparks include basketball, track and field, volleyball, bocce ball, golf, bowling and a Nordic skiing program. People who are deaf or hard of hearing are encouraged to use the Ohio Relay Service at accessibility for specific programs not designated “adapted,” such as canoeing, paddling, snowshoeing and other seasonal recreation activities or educational offerings. Also, North Pointe Ballet offers themed dance lessons, choreography and storytelling led by staff of the professional company, and dancers of all abilities can participate. Carlisle Reservation (12882 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange), the largest of the parks, offers a Halloween Fair and Holiday Lights with festive multi-sensory walk- or drive-through displays along the short loop paved woodland trail. The nearby Nature Discovery Trail features a storybook trail and seasonal Little Green Choo train rides with a ramp for wheelchair access. loraincountymetroparks.com
1-800-750-0750. Penitentiary Glen (8668 Kirtland-Chardon Rd.) features a fenced Nature Play area with natural grass and rugged terrain for self-led exploration and sensory discovery with logs, tunnels and hillsides as well as a shallow pond and play campsite. lakemetroparks.com
MENTOR CIVIC CENTER PARK
This ADA-compliant playground is located between the Civic Center’s waterpark and ice arena. Features include pouredin-place rubber surfaces, ramps, merrygo-round, rockers and expression swings, which allow adults and younger users to swing facing each other. 8600 Munson Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com
LORAIN COUNTY
CASCADE PARK INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUNDS
Near the main entrance at the base of a sledding hill, this large rock- and water-themed playground for children of all ages and abilities features a splash pad, swing sets, slides, musical instruments and a small bear statue. (Note: it is not enclosed.) A smaller rock- and water-themed playground (19 Acres Picnic Area) can be accessed from the North Entrance at 120 Floradale St. 387 Furnace St., Elyria, loraincountymetroparks.com
HOLLSTEIN RESERVATION INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND AND TRAIL
Enter the building to access the outdoor, fenced playground with structured nature and water play elements, including swings, wheelchair swings, slide, sandpit, musical instruments, stocked fishing pond with accessible dock (must use free poles provided), and splash pad with zero-depth water area and nine adjustable water features including fountains, tumble buckets and water cannons. It is part of the Beaver Creek Trail connecting Hollstein Reservation and Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation. MercyHealth Amherst HealthPlex, 47160 Hollstein Drive, Amherst, loraincountymetroparks.com
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
With over 9,000 acres, the park district strives to offer programs countywide for all ages and abilities on a wide variety of topics. Inquire about
MEDINA COUNTY
CAROLYN LUDWIG MUGRAGE PARK AND STORYWALK TRAIL
This large, inclusive playground has a poured-in-place rubber safety surface and multiple structures for different ages and abilities, including double-sized ramps for wheelchair users, slides, bridges, ramps, platforms, swings, a merry-go-round and rock climbing walls. A 1-mile paved StoryWalk trail with seasonal books is nearby, along with an enclosed dog park. The park also features a three-acre catch and release fishing pond with accessible fishing pier, plus a picnic shelter and picnic tables. 4985 Windfall Road, Medina, medinacountyparks.com
MEDINA COUNTY PARK DISTRICT
Throughout more than 18 parks and nature preserves, the park district offers nearly 50 trails and a variety of recreational activities and programming, such as seasonal self-guided walking and fishing challenges for all abilities to earn awards; two-hour evening Forest Therapy Walks offering a relaxed sensory experience. Visit medinacountyparks.com for more information, including program registration. Call with accessibility questions: 330-722-9308 or 330-239-4814 (programming staff at Wolf Creek).
MIRACLE LEAGUE OF NORTHEAST OHIO
Miracle League offers individuals with special needs the opportunity to play
Set expectations and supports using photos or videos found online, a social story or simple first-then visual. For children who thrive on routine and anticipating what comes next, build the outing into the day’s schedule or before a more preferred activity or item. Point out certain aspects or activities you think they’ll enjoy if the child is reluctant. To add structure to your family’s outdoor exploration, ADACleveland.org suggests activities like bird-watching/ listening and nature bingo, and provides links to scavenger hunts. A favorite toy fidget item or show (DVD or mobile device for longer car rides) can serve as a comfort item, keep a child busy while waiting in line, or offer positive reinforcement.
BRING EXTRA FOOD, WATER AND CLOTHES
Pack a picnic meal (or discreet snacks depending on the venue) and blanket or disposable table cloth. Prepare for the elements with water shoes, a towel, wipes, hat, sunscreen, bug spray or extra layers in colder months.
BE FLEXIBLE
Will your child want to walk or scooter a trail? Bring it just in case. Have an exit strategy and alternate options in case things go south or your destination is unavailable due to weather, large crowds or other unforeseen events. A backup may be heading to a favorite food location nearby. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries for a new activity to go smoothly or for a child to even attempt it. When restrooms are scarce, some parents find it useful to pack a portable travel potty in the car.
SAFETY FIRST
When adventuring outdoors, tell someone where you are going, and dress for visibility so others can see you on trails. A simple first aid kit and portable phone charger can be handy, along with any medication your child may need (think: bee sting). Check the weather radar and, if bodies of water are a concern, also check maps. For fishing or other water-based activities, bring a life jacket. A helmet is advisable for adventurous little climbers. baseball on a rubberized accessible surface using a safe LiteFlite ball. The American League is for beginners, intermediate and advanced players ages 5-22 and players 23 and older who have a better comfort level with players less advanced. The National League is for players 23 and older or ages 15-22 with more advanced baseball skills. Teams play once a week. Medina Lion’s Miracle League Field at Sam Masi Park, 812 Gates Mills Blvd., Medina. For more details, visit miracleleagueofnortheastohio.com or contact Ken Richardson at 330-421-5305.
PORTAGE COUNTY
PORTAGE PARKS
Amenities include an ADA asphalt paved accessible trail and natural surface trail, accessible fishing dock, accessible kayak and canoe floating launch, and benches. The Park offers outdoor activity resources, like a printable Park Rx Program Guide scavenger hunt, and programming includes the Wild Hikes Challenge, Self-Guided Mindfulness Walks along the 1.6-mile paved Osprey Loop at Trail Lake Park, and geocaching. portagecounty-oh.gov
SUMMIT COUNTY
AKRON ZOO
In partnership with KultureCity, the zoo provides training to staff on sensory sensitivity, guest amenities like sensory bags with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources; weighted lap pads; quiet zones and headphone zones. A Guest Comfort Station is located across from the penguin exhibit, and a social story can be found online. The carousel and train rides are ADA accessible. Guests can rent a wheelchair outside the Barnhardt Family Welcome Center or request an escort in the ADA accessible golf cart by visiting the carousel ticket booth or granary next to the pony barn. akronzoo.org
CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
Many of the most popular attractions are fully accessible: Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail (including the Beaver Marsh near Ira Trailhead), Canal Exploration Center, Everett Covered Bridge, Brandywine Falls (upper boardwalk), and the heronry along Bath Road. Audio descriptions are readily available throughout the park, its facilities and through the official NPS app. The park’s accessibility coordinator, Ranger Arrye Rosser, can provide trip-planning advice tailored to your individual needs. Email arrye_rosser@nps. gov or call 440-717-3890. nps.gov/cuva
EVERETT SHORT HIKES
The Everett area near Peninsula offers three park-designated “autism-friendly short walks” that invite play and exploration with a variety of activities, tactile and audio exhibits, seating and proximity to restrooms and seasonal food places. Do them all in one trip or separately. (Note: these trails may be paved or firm, flat crushed limestone.) Ira Trailhead to Beaver Marsh (start at 3801 Riverview Road, Peninsula); Hunt House (2054 Bolanz Road, Peninsula); Everett Covered Bridge (2370 Everett Road, Peninsula). nps.gov
SUMMIT METRO PARKS
The parks system manages 14,000 acres, including 16 parks, several conservation areas and more than 150 miles of trails, with 22 miles of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Summit Metro Parks teamed up with the Autism Society of Greater Akron to join the Autism Friendly Communities program. Staff received special training to assist visitors who may have autism or other developmental disabilities in order to be more accommodating. There are 11 accessible trails that are either paved or composed of crushed limestone, including the Bike & Hike Trail (331 Barlow Road, Hudson); Freedom Trail (1765 Northeast Ave., Tallmadge); and F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm (1828 Smith Road, Akron), among many others. The metro parks also offers three ADA accessible campsites. summitmetroparks.org
NOTE: Trails included in this list are paved unless otherwise noted and many feature shorter, scenic loops (versus lengthy straightaways or more heavily trafficked thoroughfares). Playgrounds offer elements for wheelchair users unless otherwise noted for sensory experiences and proximity to accessible trails. Sites and programs are subject to change, so always check websites, maps and call ahead for current hours of operation and other details.
THE ART OF
Personal Connection By Lindsey Geiss
By Lindsey Geiss
As the father of an adult son with special needs and a former Laurel School teacher of 22 years, Craig Matis, of Cleveland Heights, draws on his life experiences to create art — from visual works to film, theater and musical performances with his alternative world beat folk/rock band, Uzizi. He performs, writes, directs and teaches with heart.
Matis also has made forming personal connections an artform. Matis’ son, Jon, and Jon’s mother, whom he describes as an advocate, are sources of inspiration.
“While raising our son (now 42), his mother and I were often reminded how important it was for him to have social connection with others,” Matis says. “However, as he got older, the divide between his social abilities and that of his ‘normal’ neighborhood friends grew wider with each passing year. Once he left the school environment, meeting up with new people required a skill and effort with which he needed help and support.”
Matis applauds the many social programs in the Cleveland area that address the needs of the special needs community, noting they are primarily group-driven. He found a void when it came to making individual connections.
“Through my experiences of parenting a child with mental disabilities, and through discussions with other parents of special needs children, I decided to initiate Connect to One because it would focus on developing one-on-one relationships with others,” he says.
Founded in 2013, Connect to One is a free, Cleveland-based social networking service for disabled individuals who are 18 years of age or older. The service matches individuals looking for one-on-one friendships, networking and/or dating relationships. Any person living in a group home, with parents or independently is welcome to participate.
“I just wanted to make life for these individuals a little easier, by providing them with a service that would open up their social lives a little more through meeting others they would probably not meet normally,” he says. “I didn’t want them to feel so isolated.”
Matis and the service do not mediate friendships or relationships beyond the initial introduction. While the team will make every effort to encourage members to keep their commitments, Connect to One cannot vouch for the reliability of either party. Maintaining connections is up to the users. While fundraisers and membership fees may be in its future, the service has been able to operate free of charge.
“The most rewarding aspect of having this service is simple,” Matis says. “Life can be lonely for those with or without disabilities. If I can alleviate that loneliness amongst those with physical or mental disabilities…this gives me satisfaction. It’s my way of giving back to make the world a little better place in which to live.”
Further stressing the value of connections, Matis suggests parents of children with special needs start planning early and continue exploring resources, agencies and services such as group home arrangements, which Jon’s son is part of. He happily refers individuals and families to those he has connected with in hopes of helping others along their journeys.
Craig Matis, founder of Connect to One talks to LiveSpecial about dating and relationships for people with disabilities.
Q: WHAT IS THE GENERAL DATING OUTLOOK FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?
MATIS: The desire for connection is a strong component in being human. Most of my clients happen to fall on the autism spectrum, although my website is open to anyone with mental and physical disabilities. I think that it is more frustrating for those who lack the social skills to be able to make those connections with others. Those who have contacted me about registering are not just looking to date others, but are also looking for friendships; someone to hang with, to play video games, listen to music, see a movie, etc. For those who are, in fact, looking to develop a romantic relationship, they have the same dreams that many of us have; to be able to drive a car, marry and have a family. I have been fortunate these past six years in connecting many of my clients with others, and I connected two individuals who ended up getting married to each other, and who have remained married to this day.
Q: IS DATING DIFFERENT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?
MATIS: Yes. Since I do not accompany my clients on their dates, unless I am asked to, I gain insight into their dating experiences by getting feedback from their parents, or sometimes from the clients themselves. Again, due to the lack of social skills that the majority of my clients have, much frustration has been expressed to me by both the clients and their parents. Dating requires that the partners be engaged in two-way conversations. It is difficult for people, in general, to connect with each other, despite their desires to do so. It is excruciatingly hard for those who don’t understand the social cues subject with any real depth. Of course, I am painting a broad brush here.
Q: WHAT ROLE DO PARENTS PLAY WHEN THEIR CHILD WITH DISABILITIES STARTS THINKING ABOUT DATING?
MATIS: Many of my clients live with their folks, and are dependent upon them to provide for them, even if they hold down jobs. In these cases, any dates that I arrange for them have to be in coordination with the parents’ schedules because they have to drive their adult children around. In terms of dating guidance, many of the parents are with their children on their dates, so assistance and suggestions are easily at hand.
Q: WHAT TYPE OF CONVERSATIONS CAN PARENTS HAVE WITH THEIR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES ABOUT DATING AND WHEN TO START DATING?
MATIS: It’s difficult for me to offer parents a “guidebook for dating” because each child is different with different levels of expectations. Anxiety can easily accompany the dating experience for these individuals, so the parents can emphasize the need for their child to relax and just enjoy the act of meeting new people. There is no specific time when the discussions should begin. The desire to date may arise later than with most people because the maturity levels may develop later than with the average adolescent. I think the time would be when the child begins talking about dating and having relationships with others.
Q: WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES TO CONNECT WITH POTENTIAL LOVE INTERESTS?
MATIS: Texting seems to be the most popular method of communication with the younger generations. For those individuals who are uncomfortable with face-face meetings, texting, phoning, and emailing all provide that comfortable distance. Of course, getting together, face-face, has to be part of the experience, eventually.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES TO STAY SAFE WHILE DATING?
MATIS: This is a very important issue for parents; making sure that their adult children are not only enjoying the dating experience, but are also safe and being treated well. Some adults with special needs can take care of themselves in public, and are quite independent. However, even the most independent adult can be easily taken advantage of because, once again, they’re not cognizant of social cues. If the parents know their child’s dating partner well, then there is certainly more trust there. Dating someone completely new sometimes requires the parents to accompany their children on their first few dates, if they don’t ordinarily go with them. I would say that the biggest concern for parents with their children dating is the potential for physical intimacy and sexual behavior because their adult children are just that; adults with sexual desires. There is no single piece of advice that I can offer on this subject. I know how protective parents of children with special needs can be. There’s a fine line between wanting their child to enjoy having a relationship outside of the home, and being concerned that the relationship might grow into something more serious.
Q: ARE THERE WAYS PARENTS CAN PREPARE THEIR CHILD WITH DISABILITIES FOR A DATE SUCH AS EXPECTATIONS?
MATIS: I guess it all depends upon what the child is capable of understanding. So much depends upon how well the child is able to comprehend what the parents are telling him/her. The parents can talk about their own experiences with dating in the past; how to be respectful of the date’s feelings and thoughts, be a good listener, etc. They can emphasize the need for their child to not have high expectations with a date. They need to relax, enjoy the time together, and just go from there. Many people with mental disabilities might have high anxiety when meeting new people, so it is important that the parent tries to alleviate that anxiety in whichever way works for them. The parents will be familiar with their child’s concerns and should be able to work with them. For example, the parent could agree to accompany their child on the date to lessen the level of anxiety.
Q: HOW DO PARENTS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES PREPARE THEIR CHILD IF THE DATE DOESN’T GO WELL OR IF A RELATIONSHIP GOES SOUR?
MATIS: Life has many disappointments, including with relationships or dating. There is risk in almost everything in life. Again, the parent should talk to their child about their disappointments, or concerns, if a date doesn’t work out. We’ve all had dates that haven’t turned out the way we might have wanted. Again, it’s important that the child tries to relax with someone new and just enjoy the time spent with him/her. For some individuals with special needs, a simple meal at their favorite restaurant is enough to brighten their day, regardless if they see their date again, or not.
THE PROCESS FOR CONNECT TO ONE
After an online application has been reviewed and verified, a person’s profile is published in the password-protected directory that only authorized members can access. Once the profile is published that person and other members can view profiles and place requests to meet. The database allows users to search the directory by location, age and disability. The Connect to One team processes requests within a week. After an invitation is extended, the recipient can accept or reject the offer. If an invitation is accepted, Matis works with both parties to arrange a time and place for them to meet.
For more information on Connect to One, visit connectcle.org or call 216-381-1257. To join the network, fill out an application at connectcle. org/register. Angela Gartner contributed to this article.
THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY
ON THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING COMMUNITY
By Ginny McCabe
John L. Moore, executive director of Deaf Services Center, was born deaf and grew up in the deaf world. His brother and parents also are deaf.
“The world was silent from the time I was born until I’m older, but I have a visual approach,” he says.
He depends on a variety of tools to help him communicate, and technology has played a role.
“I primarily use American Sign Language to communicate,” he says. “That’s my primary approach to communication with my wife, my friends and other professionals. In certain situations, I will try to lip read and use written communication, or texting and phone communication. Sometimes, I use an app called Otter for my phone. If I have a hard time lip reading a person, I’ll just put on an app. If a person has on a mask or they are mumbling, all that stuff makes it difficult. Masking has been hard because I can’t see their lips.”
Other ways communication has evolved for Moore is through interpreters and different forms of technology, such as a third-party relay service, which is paid for through the federal government, he says.
“It was not possible 30 years ago to have this service. There have been a lot of technological advances,” Moore says.
Individuals who are deaf, like Moore, and hard-ofhearing or who experience hearing loss have been impacted by technological advances, like phones, to receive better access to communication.
CHILDREN AND ADULTS EXPERIENCE HEARING LOSS According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), approximately 20 percent, or 48 million Americans, have hearing loss.
Here’s a look at the stats for children: • About two to three out of every 1,000 children in the U.S. are born with a detectable level of hearing loss in one or both ears. • More than 90 percent of deaf children are born to hearing parents. • Approximately 15 percent of American adults (37.5 million) ages 18 and older report some trouble hearing. • As of December 2019, approximately 736,900 cochlear implants have been implanted worldwide. In the United States, roughly 118,100 devices have been implanted in adults and 65,000 in children. • Five out of six children experience ear infection (otitis media) by the time they are 3 years old.
There are other game-changers on the horizon. NIDCD notes that overthe-counter (OTC) hearing aids are coming. This new category of hearing aids means consumers will soon be able to buy directly, without having to visit a healthcare professional.
Like traditional hearing aids, OTC hearing aids will make sounds louder so that some people with difficulty hearing are better able to listen, communicate and participate in daily activities. In addition, OTC hearing aids will be regulated as medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Services such as telecom–munication relay services and video remote interpreting are designed to ensure equal communication access to those who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard-of-hearing or speech disabled.
Moore’s work at Deaf Services Center (dsc.org) empowers those faced with language barriers by promoting access to communication. DSC provides direct services to individuals including job coaches, employment services, summer camps for deaf and hard-of-hearing children, sign language classes, sign language interpreting services and more. CONNECTING TO THE COMMUNITY Audiologists rely on technology quite a bit, and large strides have been made in different technologies, including hearing aids, according to Bridgid M. Whitford, Au.D, CCC-A, director of audiology services at Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center.
“Years ago, they were analog; now all of them are digital,” Whitford says. “The newest thing with hearing aids is they can connect to lots of other things. They use Bluetooth, so you can connect them to your TV and telephone. Apps on your phone control your hearing aids; there are some apps that actually act almost as hearing aids, so those lines are becoming blurred in terms of the hearing aid technology and some of the other technologies that individuals may use in their lives, such as their cell phone. There are huge advances that are going that way, and accessories that can be added to hearing aids.”
Cochlear implant technology is another game-changing advancement for those with more severe to profound hearing loss.
“Cochlear implant technology is different from a hearing aid because it’s implanted, but it provides access to sound,” Whitford says. “They are geared toward people with significant hearing losses, and that technology is improving. People who receive that technology early on, like infants and toddlers, are many times successful in accessing sound — which would then allow them to communicate in an oral method, learning to talk and learning to listen. This is different from how it was for people who were deaf years ago, who may have not had access to sound.”
“Cochlear implants are complex electrical devices with two major parts, one that is surgically implanted above the ear and another that attaches to the implant by a magnet on one end with a tube to an ear mold that fits in the ear on the other,” explainse Dr. Dorothy C. Miller, D.S.W., writer and independent scholar. “They can restore hearing to people with severe to profound hearing loss via a bypass of damaged cells and sending signals directly to the auditory nerve. The brain understands these signals as sound.”
Miller, who described herself as having “a moderate to severe hearing loss,” said repeated visits to an audiologist are required to “map” one’s device to reach optimal hearing. At first, the person may not recognize voices or may hear them as extremely distorted, but over time with training and mapping, most people appreciate what they can hear compared with almost no hearing capacity before the implant. Normal hearing is not replaced, and a person with an implant has to get used to the sounds they hear with an implant. Some people have both a cochlear implant and a hearing aid, while others have two cochlear implants. In addition, cochlear implants can easily be used with assisted listening devices.
“There’s still some controversy around it, because that is not a solution that everybody wants, nor is it appropriate for every person or every family,” Whitford says. “(They) insist, rightly, that deaf culture is an important culture, and that sign language follows the ‘rules’ of all languages,” Miller says. “Indeed, in some colleges and universities, one can choose to learn sign language as one’s required learning of a language. Ultimately, this community may disappear. On the other hand, when the earphone(s) on a cochlear implant are taken off, the person is still deaf.”
Maria O’Neil Ruddock, director of the Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing, adds that there are many deaf individuals who don’t choose to use amplification. This is particularly true with adults, for whom these kinds of technologies didn’t exist when they were younger. Therefore, their hearing loss couldn’t be remediated to the extent that they wished, meaning amplification did not allow them to hear speech sounds. It allowed them to have access to environmental noises, but their losses were so profound that it didn’t allow them to have access to speech, and then as adults, they decided, “What’s the point?”
O’Neil Ruddock says since cochlear implants didn’t exist when many of today’s adults were infants, their families chose hearing aid technology instead. livespecial.com 2021-22 37
However, there are many technologies that assist individuals in everyday communication and living. So, while it isn’t through amplification that they use those technologies, they get things like talk-to-text on their phones, and that technology has improved greatly in the last few years. It’s reliable for someone who, for example, might want to place an order at McDonald’s. Similarly, when people who are profoundly deaf are in an event, there is a phone app that can convert the person’s voice to text, so that kind of technology is very helpful.
Another advancement, according to O’Neil Ruddock, is video phone technology, which allows a deaf person with high-speed internet and their phone to connect with a remote interpreter.
“When they call the doctor to schedule an appointment, they call with their video phone, typing in a number, and then, as that phone call connects to an agency, a sign language interpreter comes on the screen. That also converts over to an app on their cell phone,” she adds.
ALDS, HEARING LOOPS, CLOSED CAPTIONING AND MORE Assisted listening devices, or ALDs, complement hearing in places like theaters and lecture halls. They also can facilitate connections to audio sources for television and music.
Hearing loops or induction loops are special sound systems used by people with hearing aids. Hearing loops provide a magnetic wireless signal, which is picked up by a hearing aid. Induction loops consist of copper wires that connect with microphones and direct sound, via hearing aid or cochlear implant telecoils, bypassing ambient noise.
Miller said a number of public places in the nation are now using hearing loops, thanks to one of the primary “initiators” of the movement, David Myers, and the Hearing Loss Association of America’s “Get in the Hearing Loop” campaign.
She said New York City passed a law in 2018 that requires all large construction or renovation that includes “assembly areas” to include looping in those areas. Loops are most prominent in houses of worship, as well as in tourist venues and information desks, and are increasingly being installed in airports, such as in Eugene, Ore.; Sarasota, Fla.; and Rochester, N.Y.
“Many theaters throughout the country are looped, but unfortunately only the Aurora Community Theater in the Cleveland area has a loop,” Miller says.
Loops also have been installed in all the Geauga County library system information desks and meeting rooms, for example.
Closed captioning displays the audio portion of the program as text on a screen and it provides the information to those who are deaf and hard of hearing.
Miller says closed captioning is required by federal law to be available in movie theaters, and some theaters provide “glasses” programmed with closed captioning that can even be worn over regular glasses. Others provide devices that can be affixed to a person’s beverage cup in the theater.
While some public venues and spaces in Northeast Ohio have hearing loops and closed captioning available, they are not widely available in all public spaces. Another thing that Miller said would be helpful is real-time closed captioning in airports and other places.
“Loops in police stations, city council meeting rooms and other community venues could also help everyone because a large chunk of the population would be heard, thus improving the democratic process, not to mention health and safety,” Miller says. “If all theaters were looped, how many hearing-impaired children, given the opportunity to attend, would go on to write brilliant plays? If all community centers and city council chambers and the offices of public officials were looped, how many brilliant young people would go into public service?”
You can get more information about loops at dorothy.miller@case.edu or hearingloss.org.
Ohio School for the Deaf Teacher Recognized for the First Time in State Award
Anthony Coy-Gonzalez, an Ohio native and a teacher at the Ohio School for the Deaf in Columbus, was named the Ohio Department of Education’s 2021 “Ohio Teacher of the Year.”
Coy-Gonzalez teaches upper elementary students in the Columbus area. This is the first time an Ohio School for the Deaf teacher has received this honor since the “Ohio Teacher of the Year” award program was started in 1964.
“It’s an honor. It’s humbling because we have four kids who are students in Ohio, and I graduated from a district in Ohio, so it’s going to be part of a legacy that’s bigger than me,” says CoyGonzalez, who has received regional and state-level recognition. “I’m humbled by the work that the teachers are doing for my students, especially in this last year, and to just be a part of Ohio teachers is exciting for me.
Coy-Gonzalez says that for him, this year has included a lot of participation in various committees and task forces. He has made presentations to other educators. In 2022, he also will become the Ohio Teacher Fellow, which follows the “Ohio Teacher of the Year” recognition.
The Ohio Department of Education says Coy-Gonzalez “strives to provide students with real-world experiences that broaden their horizons and shape their future goals.”
Coy-Gonzalez earned a Master of Arts in Deaf Education as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Education and Elementary Education from Flagler College. He just finished his eighth year teaching at Ohio School for the Deaf. He spent three years as a high school English teacher and transitioned to the upper elementary department, where he has taught third through fifth grade for the past five years.
