Guidelines for Respectful Interactions with DeafBlind Individuals

Understanding basic information about accessibility and supporting the full participation of people who are DeafBlind is important for anyone who is working with, living with and/or supporting a person with a combined hearing and vision loss. Knowing how to provide visual and environmental information is critical in ensuring that a person who is DeafBlind has access to the information they need to make decisions and interact with their environment on their own terms. It is particularly important for those working with individuals who are DeafBlind to understand that their role is to provide access and information, not to make decisions for the person. Feeling comfortable with the social norms relating to approaching, communicating and interacting with people who are DeafBlind ensures that interactions are respectful, enjoyable and that the person who is DeafBlind can participate fully and equally.