What does the term deafblind mean_
Federal legislation defines children with deaf-blindness as individuals between the ages of birth and 21 years of age who have “auditory and visual impairments, the combination of which creates such severe communication and other developmental and learning needs that they cannot be appropriately educated without special education and related services, beyond those that would be provided solely for children with hearing impairments, visual impairments, or severe disabilities, to address their educational needs due to those concurrent disabilities.
The term “Deafblind” is often misunderstood. Many people think that it means that a child has to be totally deaf and totally blind. But, most children identified as deafblind have some useful vision and/or some useful hearing.
Are there other terms that mean the same as deafblind or having combined vision and hearing loss_
Yes- the term dual sensory impairment (DSI) means the same thing:
- “dual” means two
- “sensory” means relating to the five senses: vision, hearing, taste, touch, smell
- “impairment” means problem
With deafblindness, because the two major sense organs are affected, we can say a child is dual sensory impaired.
Who is eligible for services from the Arizona Deafblind Project_
Children and youth (birth through 21 years of age) are eligible to receive services if they:
*Reside in Arizona
* have a documented vision and hearing loss, or
* are suspected of having dual sensory impairments, or at risk for having a combined vision loss.
The combined effects of vision and hearing losses, even if both are mild, may qualify the child for services.
Why are there special services for children who have combined vision and hearing loss_
Having a combined vision and hearing loss is considered a low incidence disability because of its rarity. The effect of deafblindness can create unique needs for children especially if they are to participate effectively at home, school, and in other settings in the community. Due to the fact that an individual with deafblindness receives information from the outside world with fewer senses (touch, taste, and smell) he / she experiences many blocks to communication, cognitive, and emotional development.
Although all children identified as deafblind are individual, they often share common needs in the areas of communication, mobility, and overall learning, in addition to concerns about their vision and hearing. Each person’s level of vision and hearing loss differs. Some deafblind individuals have some functional vision and hearing that can be utilized.
Who can refer a child to the Arizona Deafblind Project_
Referrals may be made by parents, teachers, school personnel, doctors, and people from other agenciesin Arizona.
Referrals may be made by contacting the Arizona Deafblind Project. A formal referral packet will be mailed to the person making the referral, and we may take some information over the phone. The packet includes:
* Description of the services for deafblind children with information on the Arizona Deafblind Project
* Student referral form
* Parent consent form for exchange of information
(we need ophthalmological, audiological, educational, and other pertinent information)
* Request for professional consultation/ technical assistance
What happens after a referral is made_
Upon receipt of the referral form, audiological, ophthalmological, and educational information, the staff of the Arizona Deafblind Project will review the information. If necessary, the person who initiated the referral will be contacted for further information. A visit to the child’s home or educational program may be made to assist in determining if the child qualifies for services. When a determination is made, the person initiating the referral will be notified, parents will be sent a letter, and technical assistance will be offered to both the family and the educational service providers.
What services does the Arizona Deafblind Project provide_
The Arizona Deafblind Project provides the following services:
1. classroom or home consultation visits
2. inservice training and workshops
3. books, videos, and other resources from our loan library
4. contact with other educators or parents
5. referral services and assistance with identifying students as deafblind
6. transition support
7. family and educational team support
8. early intervention
What are the Project goals for the Arizona Deafblind Project_
1. identification
2. TA to families
3. TA to service providers
4. evaluation through community oversight, coordination and collaboration
Is there a Charge for Services_
The Arizona Deafblind Project provides services at no cost to families, school districts, or other agencies requesting them.
How can I find out more about the Arizona Deafblind Project_
Please contact: Arizona Deafblind Project