DBAS

DEAF-BLIND ACCESSIBILITY INTERPRETER

A Deaf-Blind Accessibility Interpreter provides professional service to facilitate the interaction of a Deaf-Blind person with other people and the environment. The Deaf-Blind Accessibility Interpreter’s job includes:

• Interpret auditory, visual and/or written information using the mode of communication that is required. Eg. ASL, oral, with or without  the use of voice, hand over hand(tactile) ASL, computerized note taker. This should include facial expressions, side comments and the  mood of the speaker and participants.
• The Deaf-Blind Accessibility Interpreter will assist with the guiding, transportation and orientation needs of the client.
• Work as a team member with the client regarding their placement eg. Sitting near or away from the window, dim or turn up the lights etc.

DEAF-BLIND ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT

Deaf-Blind Accessibility Support’s are para-professionals and do not replace a professional intervenor, home care, handi-transit or other community services. The Deaf-Blind Accessibility Support’s job includes:

• Providing visual, audio and environmental information.
• Empower the person who is Deaf-Blind, so they are enabled to live and remain active independently in their own home and in the  community.
• Work in varied circumstances and will be used to enhance the quality of life for a person who is Deaf-Blind.

ASL Interpreter

American Sign Language Interpreter who is trained to interpret between English to ASL or ASL to English.

LUCIEN’S STORY

The Deaf-Blind Accessibility Supports are all wonderful, kind, hard working, and caring individuals.  I like all the ones that I’ve worked with so far.  Without knowing it, they cause us to become bold, increase our self-esteem, be outspoken at times, confident to participate in things while on outings.  We feel comfort in their presence, and relaxed to have conversations with them or other people around us.  Their help is always welcome, although some of us always try to exhibit some degree of independence from time to time.  When this occurs, we do not want them to feel useless, but instead proud of us for trying to be independent even for a minute or two. They are truly blessings to everyone, in more ways than one.  For those who didn’t experience smiles or laughter did or will with one of the Deaf-Blind Accessibility Supports or another at some point in time. Many people who were born without sight and hearing, have a natural ability to express or show smiles or laughter, while some do not know either until they are told what it is they are experiencing. There are always lots to discover in the world, and you don’t always have to go very far to discover or experience it.