Deaf+ (Diversity in Deaf Community)

Deaf+ means people who are deaf or hard of hearing and also have other conditions. The “+” shows there is something extra besides being deaf.[1][2][3]

Who are Deaf+ people?

Deaf+ includes many different situations:[4][5][1]

Deafblind people (deaf and cannot see well)
Deaf people with learning difficulties or intellectual disabilities
Deaf people with autism
Deaf people with physical disabilities
Deaf people with mental health needs

In Europe, about 40-60% of deaf people have extra challenges besides being deaf. For deafblind people specifically, there are between 33,000-38,000 people in the Netherlands alone, and similar numbers exist across other European countries.[6][7][4]

How do Deaf+ people communicate?

Communication for Deaf+ people depends on their specific needs and abilities. There are many different ways they can communicate:[3][1][4]

For deafblind people:

Tactile signing (vierhandengebaren): The deafblind person holds the hands of the person signing to feel the movements[7][8]
Fingerspelling in the hand: Letters are spelled into the palm of the hand using a special hand alphabet[9][7]
LORM system: Each letter uses a specific tap or stroke on different parts of the hand[7]
Visual signing: If they can see enough, signs are made within their limited field of vision

For deaf people with autism:

Sign language with visual supports: Using pictures, symbols or written words alongside signing[10][4]
Structured communication: Clear routines and predictable ways of talking[4]
Multiple communication methods: Combining speech, signs, gestures, and written text[4]
Extended time: More time to process and respond to communication

For deaf people with intellectual disabilities:

Simple sign language: Using basic signs that are easy to understand[5][4]
Total communication: Mixing signs, speech, gestures, pictures, and written words[1][4]
Visual supports: Using pictures, symbols or objects to help explain ideas[4]
Repeated instructions: Saying or signing things multiple times in simple steps

For deaf people with multiple disabilities:

Assistive technology: Special devices like communication boards or tablets with symbols[11][4]
Behavioral communication: Understanding that behavior can be a way of communicating needs[3][4]
Sensory communication: Using touch, vibration, or light to get attention

Challenges for Deaf+ people

Deaf+ people face many challenges:[2][5][4]

Double or triple barriers: They must deal with being deaf plus their other condition
Getting tired quickly: Daily activities take much more energy
Finding the right support: Services are often made for people with only one disability
Being overlooked: They may be forgotten in policies and services
Communication breakdown: Others may not understand their specific communication needs

Rights and support

The European Union of the Deaf (EUD) works to protect the rights of all deaf people in Europe, including Deaf+ people. However, there are still gaps in support. For example, the EU does not yet fully recognize the right to tactile-sign interpreters for deafblind people.[17][2]

Remember

Deaf+ people bring diversity and strength to our community. Each person is unique and may need different types of communication support. With understanding and the right help, Deaf+ people can participate fully in society. Their experiences make our deaf community richer and more inclusive.