Do you think that you have hearing loss? Do you live with someone who is hard of hearing? Are you confused on how to cope and how to communicate? Are you shopping for hearing aids and don't know what to choose? Did you understand your audiogram?

These and many other questions will be answered at a free seminar sponsored by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services November 7 th at the Schreiber Conference Center on the St. Lucie West Campus of Indian River State College. The seminar begins at 9 a.m. and includes a continental breakfast.

Don't worry if you have hearing problems in large rooms. A Communication Access Real-time Translation (commonly referred to as CART) will project a written text of what is being said as it is being said on two large screens at the front of the room.

The real-time closed captioning program at WPBF - TV25 will be explained, as well as the Florida Telecommunications Relay program, which provides free specialized telephone equipment to qualified Florida residents.

Also speaking will be Elizabeth Royer, M.A., CCC-A, an audiologist with Drs. Berghash, Lanza and Zeiders and chairman of the board of DHHS. She will be presenting vital information on audiograms and things you need to know before purchasing a hearing aid. Rick Kottler, DHHS Executive Director will be speaking on communication strategies and Deborah Caron, PhD. will be discussing living with hearing loss.

This seminar is sponsored by Wachovia Bank and Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc.

To reserve your seat at the seminar, contact DHHS at 772-335-5546.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of the Treasure Coast, Inc. is a 501-c-3 non profit corporation whose mission is to establish links between those with hearing loss and the hearing world through sponsorship of activities which enhance the quality of life and provide for the equalization of opportunities for this special needs group in the Martin, Indian River, Okeechobee and St. Lucie Counties. DHHS is supported in part by the United Way. If you wish more information or would like to participate, please call 772-335-5546.