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Support Strategies for the Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing and Autistic Community
Autistic individuals who are Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing will face unique challenges. Below are three areas to focus on while supporting a person in this community.
Communication is Top Priority
- You will want to make sure the person has what they need to communicate, such as:
- Another person who understands sign language
- Writing tools or an electronic tablet
- Photos or videos
- Picture supports or visual schedules
- Work with the person and others who support them to understand their communication. Whoever is supporting the person should understand their communication system.
- When communicating with the person, position yourself where they can easily see you. Try to be in an area with good lighting and not a lot of distractions. If the person reads lips, make sure that you look directly at them and speak at a clear, even pace.
- Focus on communication over speech. We communicate in many different ways: with hand movements, facial expressions, body language, texting, and showing pictures.
- Vocal speech is not necessary for successful communication.
Understand Different Sensory Experiences
- Deaf/HH autistic individuals may be more sensitive in other ways, such as feeling, seeing, or smelling. Ask the individual or their supports if certain sensory modifications would be helpful.
- If the person is becoming angry or distressed, it may be because of their environment. Look around the space to see if anything could be causing sensory dysregulation or a communication breakdown.
Learn More about Deaf Culture & ASD Advocacy
- Deaf culture has its own norms, values, and community identity — it is not a disability culture. Be curious about Deaf culture. Engage with the Deaf community when possible to learn more. Use certified interpreters if possible.
- Encourage people you support to share their preferences by asking and being open to differences.
*This resource was created in collaboration with Stephanie Dille-Huggins, MA, BCBA.
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.