Dual Sensory
Dual sensory impairment refers to a person with both sight and hearing impairment and is sometimes referred to as deafblind.
People can be born with a dual sensory impairment or they can experience sight and hearing loss at any stage of their life.
Often hearing and vision loss can come on gradually.
In later life, people often think this is a natural part of the aging process and can sometimes go unrecognised in the early stages.
If you experience any form of sensory loss then there are a number of options for you to get advice information and support.
You can contact your registered GP who can refer to you to an eye or hearing specialist who can determine -
- the significance of your problems
- point you in the direction of gaining a greater understanding of your situation
- support you to register as blind, partial sighted or deaf
If you have a sensory impairment or are experiencing sensory loss, you may be able to access support to help you live your life.
The Department of Health has set out very clear policy guidelines regarding the care and support for deafblind children and adults. This policy outlines the responsibility local authorities have to people who are deafblind.
Local support
Aids and adaptions
Our aids and adaptions page has information on the various support available including the Kingston Care Lifeline and Telecare Services
Transport
Our Transport section has lots of information around transport and mobility.
National support
Sense
Sense is a national charity that specifically supports people who are deafblind. They produce free, easy to use resources for family members and staff that support older people with dual sensory loss.
Deafblind UK
Deafblind UK support people with combined sight and hearing loss to live the lives they want. They can support you –
- to take back control after a diagnosis
- when you require additional support to help you do the things you love
- when you need somebody to turn to when you are feeling low
- by providing information and advice
Association for All Speech Impaired Children (AFASIC)
AFASIC 'Voice for Life' is a parent led organisation to help children and young people with speech and language impairments and their families. They provide information and training for parents and professionals. They also produce a range of publications.
CHARGE Family Support Group
The CHARGE Family Support Group is the UK’s registered charity for people with CHARGE Syndrome and their families.