Although my sense of hearing has gradually deteriorated over the past 30 years, I became completely deaf in June 2006. Access technology has become my lifeline in working and socializing with supervisors, co-workers, family and friends.
Vacationing is a time when we look to relax and recuperate from the stress of our daily lives. However, to be excluded from movies (without captioning), contact with our children (lack of TTY phones) and visual information regarding activities as well as possible emergencies, does much to increase rather than decrease the level of stress for people with hearing loss. It is also my understanding that many cruises are heavily attended by senior citizens, a population with the strongest prevalence of hearing loss.
I strongly urge you to consider upgrading your technological access for people with hearing loss. Because of the current lack of resources on cruise ships, an increase in services would seem a luxury, yet it is indeed a necessity. I would certainly look to reserve my vacations with a line that would provide me with the resources I require.
If I can help to expedite these services in any way, please let me knew.
Sincerely,
Toni Iacolucci
[address]
New York, NY 10025
[phone]