It is estimated that up to 75% of people with intellectual disabilities also have a vision impairment. Regular vision screening and monitoring for vision changes are even more important for individuals with intellectual disabilities! Ophthalmologists recommend regular vision screening that allows for extra time and adapts to the unique needs of the
February is recognized across the United States as Black History Month. Did you know American Sign Language, like any language, has variations by culture? Deaf African Americans faced not only the typical exclusion of those in Deaf culture but historical segregation as well. As a result, this group developed their own dialect
Listening is half of communication! We listen in many different ways and each of them is important. Below are some tips to help you to be a better receiver of communication!
This month we celebrate AAC and the freedom it gives to non-traditional communicators. It is estimated that there are over 2 million people that use AAC as a form of communication. Using aided AAC can provide a “voice” to those who do not use speech. AAC can be “high tech” or more
FASD Awareness Month hopes to bring awareness to the various ways this disorder can present. Fifty years ago, doctors diagnosed the first person with FASD. FASD is caused by exposure to alcohol prenatally in the womb. Some estimates indicate that FASD occurs in up to 5 out of every 100 children. As
The third annual publication of the Resource Guide for Supporting Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Individuals has been released! The purpose of this guide is to offer resources in one central location for those who support or care for someone who is Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind and receives supports
Each year we celebrate July as Disability Pride Month. It’s a time to celebrate and advocate for a more inclusive world! What can YOU do to make a difference for someone with communication needs? Support access always!Ensure a person’s communication device is always available.Have interpreters available. If you notice someone does not
What is Aphasia? An impairment of language, affecting the production or comprehension of speech and the ability to read or write Seven tips for communicating with someone with Aphasia: A - Ask simple questionsP - Provide choicesH - Help communicate, if askedA - Acknowledge it, if there is frustrationS - Speak slowly
Research has shown that effective communication is key to positive mental health. Communication drives our ability to form relationships and share our wants and needs with another person. It also allows us to discuss our deeper thoughts and feelings as we build relationships. In fact, a Harvard study showed that the people
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is now the fastest growing developmental disorder impacting 1 in 36 people. Additionally, 40% of those with ASD have limited speech or do not communicate through speech. Communication is how we connect and build relationships as well as meet our own needs. Communication, however, it is done, is
