There are many reasons why a person may be DeafBlind. Quite often it is a result of a particular genetic syndrome while sometimes it is simply the combination of two separate causes. Either way, it is important for professionals to understand the visual and hearing condition that is affecting the person with whom they are working while understanding that the combination of both creates a unique sensory situation. Knowing what a person can see or hear is essential in establishing clear communication, ensuring safe mobility, and determining what accommodations and/or modifications may be needed.
This can provide some preliminary information about the status of the person’s vision, hearing and other information including their preferred communication method. However, it is just as important to talk to the individual about their current visual and auditory experiences to find out their preferences, challenges, and the progressive nature of their vision and/or hearing loss. For example, it can’t be assumed that a person who is described as having “low vision” needs large print materials. People with retinitis pigmentosa typically lose their peripheral vision first which can make reading large print more difficult. Talking with the individual about their personal needs is the most important step in ensuring that the consumer has the greatest level of visual and auditory access to information.
