DeafBlind Interpreting Services
A summary of interpreting services for DeafBlind individuals.
When it comes to providing inclusive and accessible events, it is crucial to consider the needs of all attendees, including those who are DeafBlind. DeafBlind individuals have unique communication needs that vary significantly from one individual to the next. DeafBlindness refers to simultaneous hearing and vision loss, but most DeafBlind individuals do have some usable hearing and/or vision. Some rely more on their hearing, and others rely more on their sight. It is essential to provide appropriate interpreting services and accommodations to ensure their full participation and engagement.
If you have a DeafBlind client or consumer requesting interpreting services at your event, it is important to ask them what type of interpreting services they prefer. Depending on their vision, they may prefer one of the following modes of interpreting:
Close Vision Interpreting: For clients that have some amount of vision, they may prefer to have an interpreter sit within their field of vision (usually very close, knee-to-knee, but varies depending on consumer preference) and they rely on their vision to receive the interpretation.
Tracking: The DeafBlind individual places their hands on the interpreter's wrists and relies both on vision and some feeling to receive the interpretation.
Tactile Interpreting: Tactile sign language involves the DeafBlind individual physically placing their hand(s) over the hand(s) of the interpreter to feel the signs being produced. Depending on the DeafBlind individual's preferences, they may place one or both hands on the interpreter's hands. They rely fully on their sense of touch to receive the interpretation.
Supplemental Modes of Communication:
Print-on-Palm (POP): Some DeafBlind individuals use this method for clarification of any words or terms that were misunderstood. The interpreter traces the letter shapes into the palm of the DeafBlind individual to spell out a word.
Pro-Tactile (PT): This is a relatively new (est. 2007) form of communication in the DeafBlind community, and is generally used to supplement communication in ASL. It is used primarily for back-channeling (ex: to share facial expressions or reactions from the audience like nodding or laughing) and mapping (ex: sharing directions within a building or describing a location's surroundings).
Additional considerations:
FM Assisted Listening Device: For clients that rely more on their hearing, they may prefer to use an ALD (Assisted Listening Device) that connects to the microphone of the speaker. Some clients may use bluetooth to connect this to their hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Lighting and placement: It's important to ensure visibility for all ASL interpretation, but especially with DeafBlind attendees. Reserve ASL-only chairs, and ensure they are properly lit.
Printed materials: If the audience has any printed materials, it is important to offer alternative formats such as large print or braille.
SSPs: Many DeafBlind clients aren't comfortable navigating new areas. Depending on the individual, they may rely on a guide dog or SSP (Support Service Provider). In order to accommodate them at your event, you may ensure the staff knows to allow their guide dog on site. Or you can offer accommodations to ensure their SSP can be on-site with them. Alternatively, you can train a staff member to guide them from their drop-off location to the registration desk or meeting location.
Training staff: It is crucial to create an inclusive and welcoming environment by raising awareness among event staff and participants. To promote a culture of inclusivity and respect, please consider training your staff on the unique communication needs of DeafBlind individuals.
It is essential to communicate with DeafBlind attendees prior to the event to gather information about their specific communication needs because each individual's preferences vary significantly. By proactively addressing these needs, event organizers can ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all attendees.
Image courtesy of SOCAP, Sorenson, and Hardwig Media
