Have you ever wondered why friends or loved ones who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (HOH) zone out and disengage during conversations?
The quality of the environment in a gathering room can either make or break a conversation with people who are Deaf and HOH.
💡 Here are a few ways to create an accessible environment that is engaging for everyone:
- Floor: Vibration is a form of communication. People who are Deaf will stomp their feet to get your attention if the floor is made of wood or on the second level.
- Visibility: You can almost guarantee that a tall vase in the middle of a table will be moved if a person who is Deaf or HOH is at the table. For Deaf and HOH folks, being able to see all around them without interference is important for effective communication.
- Lighting: Choose soft lighting when hosting gatherings with Deaf folks. Lighting that is too intense or harsh can affect visibility and the quality of a conversation.
- Seating: Sit across from the person who is Deaf or HOH to give them visible access to your face and hands.
- Ceiling light: Flash a light switch on and off to get people’s attention. Then, begin your conversation.
👋 Wondering how to best support your loved ones who are Deaf or HOH? Contact us! We’d love to help and point you in the right direction.
– Visually Speaking Team
Donations may be allocated to support Certified Deaf Interpreters, DeafBlind interpreters and support, ASL interpreters from marginalized communities, as well as fund requests for event access for Black Lives Matter (BLM) and various marginalized community events.