Demystifying People With Disabilities Part 5

Frequently, people think a hearing aid is a "cure-all". It is not. These devices do not function like normal hearing. Rather, they amplify sounds. A hearing aid mainly helps to make speech clearer and understandable at a shorter range. This will help avoid raising your voice while communicating. Unfortunately, background noises are more amplified and cause more distraction than it would to a person with normal hearing. Amplification devices are available for Telephones & other office equipment. TDD equipment allows total deaf individuals the ability to communicate via the telephone. Lights can be installed on devices to signal when a tone is present. Examples might be alarm clocks, doorbells, and telephones.

It is incumbent upon us to adhere to and follow the simple rules and guidelines presented here. Remember, people with disabilities are people just like you. They don?�t want pity or condescending treatment. Their sense of smell, touch, or hearing did not improve when they lost their vision. They simply rely on them more and may get more information through those senses than you do.

The development of specialized tools and devices has opened up a new world of independent living for people with mobility, vision, and hearing impairments. Simple jobs and ordinary task no longer require an assistant. Electronic devices and computers have broaden employment opportunities and enhanced quality of life for many.

It is important for you to know the correct procedure to offer assistance while not interfering with their independence.

Finally, remember that while individuals with disabilities appreciate attention the way we all do, he or she wants their friends, and others, to act natural with them and not overly solicitous. Most will discuss their disability with you if you're curious, but it's an old story to them. They have as many other interests as you do.

In 1972, Larry C. Colbert's life changed suddenly and dramatically. He was diagnosed with retinitus pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease, and learned he would soon be blind. But, as Larry's eyesight gradually faded, his insight deepened. Now he's a motivational speaker who travels the world sharing humorous stories about dealing with change, overcoming adversity, and promoting diversity.

In his first book, "Insights from an out-of-sight guy", Colbert shares the poignant story of his deep personal struggle with blindness, and the fear that kept him from embracing change. With remarkably frank dialog, and powerful and humorous examples from the best of his keynote speeches, Insights reveals Colbert's intimate 30-year process of coming to "see" self, and provides practical and meaningful help for learning to cope with constant change, as well as managing the ideas, emotions, and attitudes that affect us all.

See http://drivingvision.com