Our team at SensesWA works in partnership with individuals who are deafblind, as well as with their families and carers, to enhance independence and community inclusion through tailored services.
Deafblindness is described as a unique and isolating sensory disability that results from a combination of hearing impairment and vision impairment, significantly affecting communication, socialisation, mobility and daily living.
Conditions associated with deafblindness include Retinitis Pigmentosa, Neurofibromatosis, CHARGE Syndrome, and Cortical Vision Impairment, which may lead to a progressive loss of vision or other complex needs.
Goal setting
We will meet with you to discuss your goals and aspirations, exploring what you would like to achieve. Our team will work with you to develop a personalised plan to help you reach these goals.
Our team
Our team consists of Deafblind Consultants skilled in, Orientation and Mobility, Orthoptics, Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, and Positive Behaviour Support. Each consultant has extensive training and experience supporting individuals with deafblindness and related conditions like Retinitis Pigmentosa and CHARGE Syndrome.
Sensory Services
We provide comprehensive support to help individuals with deafblindness achieve their goals, offering services in:
- Communication Skills – Training in communication methods such as Key Word Sign, and other approaches to enhance interaction for people with dual sensory loss.
- Orientation and Mobility – Instruction for safe navigation at home and in the community using techniques like sighted guiding and using a cane.
- Dual Sensory Loss/Usher Syndrome Support Group – Support for people with deafblindness, including family members, through regular meetings with educational and recreational activities.
- Assistive Technology – Assessment and provision of communication and daily living devices tailored to the unique needs of those who are deafblind or experiencing vision loss from conditions like Neurofibromatosis or Cortical Vision Impairment.
- Deafblind Awareness Training – Training for families, support workers, and professionals to help them understand deafblindness and effectively interact with individuals with dual sensory loss.
- Communication Guide Training – Advanced training for family members and support staff to communicate, guide and support individuals who are deafblind.
- Information Service – SensesWA hosts Deafblind Information, a website designed specifically for those affected by deafblindness or those interested in learning more. Visit our Deafblind Information site for resources on topics such as losing vision and sensory loss support.
SensesWA’s other services are also available for individuals with isolated vision or hearing impairments.
WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION?
Contact us with any queries you may have regarding our comprehensive deafblind consulting services and support options.
