Program goals include supporting and maintaining an increased level of independence for deaf and deaf blind elders, by removing individual and social barriers. The local chapters of SHHH offer monthly meetings and activities to support and educate members about hearing loss, community resources, communication strategies, and coping techniques. The majority of SHHH's members are persons who have acquired a hearing loss, and programs are focused on those who identify themselves as hard of hearing. TTY ALDA is a national organization committed to supporting, educating and advocating on behalf of people who grew up in the hearing world and became deaf as adults. ALDA members identify themselves a deaf, not hard of hearing, and support the use of visual modes of communication.
Local meetings provide a support network and a sense of belonging.
Workshops and conferences promote awareness and understanding of the needs of the late-deafened population. Residents must apply for admittance, and be capable of caring for themselves and performing light housework. The Home sponsors regular activities for the residents and provides nursing and on-call medical care. Sign language interpreters are provided for medical appointments. NICD collects, develops, and disseminates information about all aspects of hearing loss and services offered to deaf and hard of hearing people across the nation.