People placing limitations on the person with the sensory loss can be disabling, for example, believing that a blind person can’t manage alone or that deaf people cannot manage on their own . These attitudes and beliefs can prevent the person being included in society as an equal.

Why it is important to Recognise and value an individual with sensory loss as a person first?

Having a good understanding of sensory loss in all its forms is essential in supporting these individuals effectively. This unit will give you an understanding of the range and causes of sensory loss, the potential negative impact and how effective communication can support an individual to maintain their independence.

What needs to be considered when communicating with individuals with sight loss?

Make sure you have face-to-face contact and their full attention. Talk to the person you’re communicating with, not the interpreter. Speak clearly; don’t exaggerate your facial expressions and gestures. Don’t cover your mouth.

Where can additional advice and support about sensory loss be obtained?

Sense is the leading national charity that supports and campaigns for children, adults and older people who are deafblind or have sensory impairments. We provide expert advice and information as well as specialist services to deafblind people, their families, carers and the professionals who work with them.

How a range of factors can impact on individuals with sensory loss?

A range of factors can impact individuals with sensory loss, such as blind or partly sighted individuals struggle to read peoples facial expressions, which are important for communication. Written communication can also be problematic for partly sighted individuals. Larger font may help overcome these issues.

What are the main causes of sensory loss?

Sensory impairment is the common term used to describe Deafness, blindness, visual impairment, hearing impairment and Deafblindness.

Causes of sight loss
injury or infection.genetic or age-related such as AMD (Age Related Macular Degeneration)Cataracts.Diabetic Retinopathy.

How do you support someone with sensory loss?

Communication
Make sure you have the person’s attention before trying to communicate with them.Gently touching the top of the person’s arm is a common way of attracting their attention without startling them.Identify yourself clearly.Check that you are in the best position to communicate.

How does sensory loss affect mobility?

Mobility is reduced in people with sensory impairments and those with arthritis. The joint impact of these conditions may be underappreciated. This study examines the associations between impairments in vision, hearing, and balance and functional ability in adults with versus without arthritis.

Why is sensory impairment a barrier to communication?

Not being able to see what is around them can lead to a greater sense of disorientation, as well as worse mobility and a higher risk of falls. Having both dementia and sight loss can also make people feel isolated from those around them, which makes good communication even more important.

How do you overcome barriers to visually impaired communication?

You should also consider the following tips:
Identify yourself – don’t assume the person will recognise you by your voice.Speak naturally and clearly. Continue to use body language. Use everyday language. Name the person when introducing yourself or when directing conversation to them in a group situation.

How do you overcome visual impairment?

Options may include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and eye drops or other medicines. In some cases, surgery may be required. For instance, cataracts are often treated by removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an intraocular lens (an artificial plastic lens that requires no special care and restores vision).

How can you communicate effectively with a visually impaired client?

Speak directly to the person not through a companion, guide, or other individual. Speak to the person using a natural conversational tone and speed. Do not speak loudly and slowly unless the person also has a hearing impairment. Address the person by name when possible.

What is sensory disability?

“Sensory disabilities” can involve any of the five senses, but for educational purposes, it generally refers to a disability related to hearing, vision, or both hearing and vision. Sensory disabilities affect access – access to visual and/or auditory information.

Where can I find information and support or services to help them communicate more effectively?

Information and support on particular communications needs can be found from specialist charities and associations, especially those specialising in particular disabilities or medical conditions. Websites can provide material on forums, services or groups in the local area that you could attend or use to find out more.

How does the environment impact effective communication?

Environmental connections can have both negative or positive or anyone effects on interpersonal communication. Some of the barriers to effective communication include time, noise, place, climate, poor lighting, long-distance barriers and visual noise.