Understanding the Disability
Defining and understanding what a hearing disability looks like is challenging. We can’t see deafness, or if a person is hard of hearing.
People often incorrectly refer to all individuals with hearing difficulties as “deaf”. However, hearing loss can have many causes and various degrees.
What does deaf, hard of hearing and hearing impaired mean?
“The word ‘deaf’ usually refers to an individual with very little or no functional hearing and who often uses sign language to communicate.”
“Hard of Hearing” refers to an individual who has a mild-to-moderate hearing loss who may communicate through sign language, spoken language, or both.”
“Hearing Impaired” is used to describe an individual with any degree of hearing loss.” This term is considered offensive by some deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals because of it’s negative connotations. To be officially hearing impaired, you must have a 40db or greater hearing loss.
(Source: www.deaftec.org/content/deaf-definitions)
What is deaf/hard of hearing hockey?
"Deaf/Hard of Hearing Hockey is for anyone who has hearing loss. The game is played according to USA Hockey rules. The focus is on improving players skills in an environment this is responsive to their needs. Communication between players and coaches is very important. Players can use sign language, lip reading, hearing aids, cochlear implants, or some combination. Interpreters are always available."
(Source: www.usahockey.com/deafhockey)
(Image: www.ahiha.org)