Communication and Sensory Loss

This collection explores communication differences in individuals with sensory impairment/loss relevant to health and education students and professionals.

Children and adults with hearing, vision, and dual sensory impairment/loss may experience differences and/or difficulties with communication. This book goes beyond describing sensory loss to encourage readers to think about sensory loss and communication as part of a biopsychosocial view of health and the intersecting identities of the clients and families that they service. The book takes a strengths-based, evidence-informed approach and utilizes the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) of the WHO. Each chapter focuses on either children or adults with hearing, vision, dual sensory impairment/loss, or sensory loss and complex communication needs. Each chapter introduces the group described in the chapter and issues around appropriate use of terminology, followed by a discussion of the sensory impairment/loss and communication needs considered within each component of the ICF. Chapters conclude with case studies highlighting cultural and linguistic diversity, well-resourced and under-resourced contexts, and intersecting identities in which the framework of the ICF is applied.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and clinicians interested in evidence-based practices to support their work with individuals experiencing sensory loss.