VIABILITY, Inc’s Post

As we step into 2025, VEA-int reaffirms its dedication to addressing some of the most pressing yet often overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities across Africa. Our focus spans a range of issues that, while distinct, are deeply interconnected. 1. Hearing Loss Hearing loss represents a silent crisis affecting millions across Africa. Preventable, treatable, or manageable conditions are often left unaddressed due to inadequate early diagnosis, the high cost of hearing aids, and a shortage of trained audiologists. 2. Neurodiversity Individuals with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions face persistent barriers in education and employment. Misunderstandings and stigma around neurodiversity lead to exclusion and limit opportunities for these individuals to thrive. 3. Multiple Disabilities People living with multiple disabilities encounter compounded challenges, often requiring tailored support systems that are scarce across the continent. Systemic neglect leaves them excluded from education, employment, and social participation. 4. Intellectual Disabilities Misunderstandings about intellectual disabilities perpetuate marginalisation, especially in educational and professional spaces. With adequate resources and inclusive practices, individuals with intellectual disabilities can make valuable contributions to their communities. 5. Deafblindness (Dual Sensory Loss) Deafblind individuals, facing the dual challenges of hearing and vision loss, are often the most marginalised group within disability communities. Without targeted support, their basic rights and potential contributions remain unrealised. VEA-int’s mission for the coming year is clear: to turn neglect into empowerment, isolation into inclusion, and stigma into understanding. So we step into 2025 with purpose and determination to create a future defined by inclusion and equity.

Recommend reading the whole article but Key points relative to hearing loss and effective communictions in #healthcare settings here: "A new final rule from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) bolsters protections for people with disabilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act —emphasizing equitable, accessible, and integrated services that meet their needs in a nondiscriminatory and effective manner.    Effective July 8, the revised rule ensures that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from health care programs and activities. In a letter dated Nov. 13, 2023, ASHA’s Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) office weighed in on a number of provisions... GAPP strongly supported provisions to "ensure effective communication, including through the provision of appropriate auxiliary aids and services, which include accessible electronic and information technology” -- though the agency (HHS) did not reference specific examples of communication disorders and appropriate aids and services, as recommended by GAPP staff." Auxiliary aids and services: Providers must offer appropriate auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication with people with disabilities. Examples include interpreters, assistive listening devices, captioning, and speech-to-text services. Effective communication: Effective communication should be ensured for people who have hearing, vision, or speech disabilities. Providers must use necessary aids and services, such as captioning for people with hearing impairments, and speech-to-text services for people with communication disabilities, to ensure clear and effective communication during diagnosis and treatment. #Section504 #Hearingloss #informedconsent #patientoutcomes The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) American Academy of Audiology Academy of Doctors of Audiology

In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, AAA Washington recently hosted a DEIB Community Conversation with Ariele Belo, Co-Executive Director at the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center (HSDC) in Seattle. Ariele led a discussion on how to improve accessibility and inclusion for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) individuals. Hearing loss affects millions of Americans. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, around 15% of American adults (37.5 million people) have some trouble hearing, underscoring the need for businesses to take proactive steps in making their environments more accessible and inclusive. Ariele shared several strategies businesses can adopt to better serve the Deaf and Hard of Hearing customers and employees: 📜 Provide captions: Make sure all video content and live events have accurate, real-time captions. 👍 Use interpreters: Offer sign language interpreters when requested. 💬 Text communication: Allow customer service via email, chat, or text instead of just phone calls. 🚻 Clear signage: Ensure that signs are easy to see and understand for people who rely on visual information. 📚 Staff training: Teach employees basic Deaf awareness and how to communicate effectively with DHH individuals using visual aid Ariele also highlighted simple, yet effective strategies for making workplaces more inclusive for Deaf and Hard of Hearing employees: 💡 Visual Alerts: Install lights or other visual signals for alarms or doorbells. 📱 Assistive Technology: Provide tools like amplified phones, video relay services, or real-time captioning software. 🛋️ Quiet Meeting Spaces: Use meeting rooms with minimal background noise and good lighting for lip reading. ✉️ Flexible Communication: Allow employees to use email or text as an alternative to verbal communication. 🤝 Deaf Awareness Training: Offer training to all employees to foster better understanding and communication with DHH coworkers. As we continue to work toward greater inclusivity and accessibility, we appreciate having discussions like these to guide us, both within our business and within personal interactions.

Intellectual Disabilities: A Comprehensive Overview Understanding the Nuances Intellectual disabilities (ID) are a diverse group of conditions characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. These limitations impact a person's ability to learn, reason, problem-solve, and communicate effectively. Key Characteristics of Intellectual Disabilities - Cognitive Limitations: Difficulties with learning, memory, and problem-solving. - Adaptive Behavior Challenges: Limitations in everyday social and practical skills, such as self-care, communication, and social interactions. - Developmental Delays: Slower development in motor skills, language, and cognitive abilities. Types of Intellectual Disabilities: - Down Syndrome: A genetic condition caused by an extra chromosome 21. - Fragile X Syndrome: A genetic condition affecting primarily males, causing intellectual disability and developmental delays. - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD): A group of conditions caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. - Genetic Conditions: Other genetic conditions, such as Prader-Willi syndrome and Williams syndrome, can also lead to intellectual disabilities. Supporting Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. Providing appropriate support and interventions is crucial for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This may include: - Early Intervention: Early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes. - Specialized Education: Tailored educational programs to address individual needs. - Behavioral Therapy: Techniques to manage challenging behaviors and promote positive behaviors. - Occupational Therapy: Activities to develop daily living skills and fine motor skills. - Speech-Language Therapy: Support for communication and language development. - Social Skills Training: Opportunities to learn and practice social skills. Community Integration: Encouraging participation in community activities and fostering independence. By understanding the complexities of intellectual disabilities and providing appropriate support, we can empower individuals to reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives. To learn more about intellectual disabilities and how to support individuals and families, visit www.globalhandsinc.com #intellectualdisabilities #disabilityawareness #inclusion #specialeducation

Why has National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities rendered services and support to persons who are hearing impaired or deaf since 2005? Background: In 2005, the then-management committee of the NCPD unanimously decided to act as a mouthpiece for persons who are hearing impaired or deaf. The state and disability sectors were informed about this at the time, and it was officially accepted as such. For the first time, 4 to 5 million people who have a hearing impairment or deafness and who do not use South African Sign Language have found a proverbial home. It is important to know that approximately 500,000 Deaf people who use Sign Language are supported by at least four other national organizations in South Africa. The NCPD is, therefore, the only national organization that looks after the interests of more than 4 million hearing-impaired or deaf people. I am specifically referring here to people who subscribe to the reality of impairment and the concept of disability. Note that less than 25% of this group are hearing aid or cochlear implant users. 80% mainly use speech and/or other alternate forms of communication. However, the group forms part of the mainstream community and does not consider themselves part of the Deaf culture. What is the way forward in South Africa? All people who are hearing impaired or deaf, regardless of the form of communication they use, are entitled to reasonable accommodation and access. The NCPD and its structures act in line with the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and South African legislation, Codes and Guidelines on Disability. Together with those involved, it promotes equal access to environments, services, products, and programs. This is in line with paragraph 6.1.1.4 of the SA White Paper. We must make sure that what we promote in public is in line with disability policy, legislation, and the SA Constitution. Please call via WhatsApp if further information is required. Fanie du Toit Cochlear implantee 082 820 7358 Sources: United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2006 SA White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2025 The World Report on Hearing 2022

Did you know that disability exists on a spectrum? I’ve experienced imposter syndrome regarding some of my disabilities, often self-accommodating or compensating for them. Yet, these experiences have brought unique challenges, strengths, and perspectives. Blindness, deafness, mobility, and other disabilities all exist on a spectrum. Some people may use screen readers, some may be Braille readers, and others may use text-to-speech. Some disabilities may require aid or tools only in certain situations or on certain days. Disabilities like low vision, hearing loss, or speech difficulties are not always apparent. For example, low vision might involve challenges with contrast sensitivity, night blindness, or depth perception. Some deaf individuals might use sign language instead of written language, or a combination of methods. Mobility disabilities don’t always require aids—someone with hip weakness might struggle to stand on a moving bus, and many wheelchair users can stand or walk short distances with assistance. Conditions like certain types of epilepsy or narcolepsy can cause sudden falls, while autism, ADHD, mental health conditions, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, intellectual disabilities, and learning disabilities may be hidden. Disabilities can require specific accommodations like accessible bathrooms, a disability parking pass, or elevator access, even if they aren’t immediately apparent. Dietary needs or medical equipment such as feeding tubes or colostomy bags may also be necessary. Disabled individuals often develop strong self-management, advocacy skills, and adaptability. However, disability impacts everyone differently, and not all disabilities are apparent. Support needs can differ based on context, settings, and other factors, with co-occurring disabilities adding complexity. While not all disabled people have exceptional skills or talents, everyone’s worth remains the same. Many disabled people excel in leadership roles, and their journeys bring unique perspectives that enrich our collective understanding. Many people with disabilities want to work, but it's valid if they do not. However, many disabled people encounter stigma and discrimination, either intentional or unintentional, even today. We are all connected by our humanity. Together, let's create environments that value accessibility and foster belonging and equity for all! Image description: Black background, white text “Disability Strengths and Support Needs Vary. Disability is a spectrum. Each individual is unique.” A pink stick figure with their arms up; text says “low vision, ambulatory wheelchair user, anxiety, leader, fashion lover.” A green stick figure with flowing hair, a dress, and arms sticking up; text says “Intellectual disability, chronic pain, leader, artistic.” A pink stick figure with one arm up wearing glasses; text “Autistic, chronic illness, comedian, leader.” By Larissa Minner. #Autistic #Disability #Inclusion #Advocacy #DisabilityRights

DeafBlind Leadership Now. This video explains why the ask for help to amplify our efforts and “voices.” There’s an approximately 330 million Americans. 95 million Americans with disabilities. 20 million, 130 thousand Americans are deaf, hard of hearing, or experience a hearing disability. 18 million, 150 thousand American are within the blind spectrum or experience a vision disability. 660 thousand to 6 million 600 thousand Americans who are DeafBlind (using the 0.2-2% formula from WFDB). Yet according to the Regulatory Utility Commissioners estimated 70,000-100,000 people are deafblind, while the Helen Keller National Center estimates 2.47 million Americans are DB. As you can see from the stats here, the DB community is the smallest portion of the disability community. We are often overlooked due to the percentage. Our DB community are so diverse and a hidden group as per WFDB. Therefore, so many DB are unaccounted for due to various restrictions. This is why we need to leverage our larger community’s resources and network to further amplify our community’s impact and need for #DeafBlindLeadershipNow Let’s work together, and together we will achieve this movement where DeafBlind leaders are in place of DB based organizations. Please share, and contact Dante Q. Allen, Rehabilitation Commissioner, Brianne Burger at US Dept of Education and Helen Keller Services Board of Trustees, Larry Kinitsky, Chair, at lkinitsky@helenkellerservices.onmicrosoft.com regarding our DeafBlind Leadership Now Perition. VD: Morrison wearing a black shirt with “Drink water, Love hard, Fight Racism.” They also have on a black hat, a pair of glasses on, and a white sports watch. VT: Morrison signs (with captioning displayed on screen), “In America, there’s approximately 330 million people living in America. 28% to almost 29% of those people are living with a disability. Let’s narrow this down. Approximately 6.1% of that population are deaf, hard of hearing, or experience a hearing disability. Then there’s 5.5% are hearing blind or have low vision. Our DeafBlind community make up between 0.2 to 2% of the population that are identified as DeafBlind. For that reason, we need your support to push for this change for our community. We are so small, yet strong. Yes. We are strong. But we need you to come together to lift us up, amplify our voices for this change for this DeafBlind Leadership Now movement. Please take action. Don’t just be a bystander. Where this is off your shoulders and “assume they’ll handle it.”No. Don’t. That just hurts us more where the change, our movement will be prolonged rather than being progressive in the sense that we are moving forward. If you’re not sure how or where to start, contact me or contact a DB person that’s involved with DeafBlind Leadership Now movement. Thank you. (end of transcript)

Restoring trust among persons with hearing disabilities is a monumental task. Many have lost hope that society will accommodate their needs. Functions, concerts, and meetings remain largely inaccessible, excluding millions with hearing disabilities. Older persons are often told that hearing loss is just part of aging, perpetuating exclusion. Aural rehabilitation for adults is scarce, and many don't assert their rights due to lack of awareness about disability legislation. Despite the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and South African laws, Policies, Codes and guidelines, hearing impairment is still stigmatized. Together, we need to change this! At Fanie Dreams we empower individuals with hearing disabilities and their families to lead full lives. We advocate for self-representation and self-advocacy. Unfortunately, people who have hearing loss are often excluded from family activities, leading to depression and other psychosocial conditions. We provide unbiased information, support, and resources, free from commercial influence, in collaboration with experts in disability legislation, non-profit organizations, social workers, psychologists, audiologists, and more. Our goal is to educate and support, not to sell products or promote specific suppliers or assistive devices. Join us in creating an inclusive tomorrow! Contact us: WhatsApp/SMS 082 8207358 or email faniedreams@gmail.com. (only text messages) Together, let's restore dignity and support people who have hearing impairments in standing up for their rights. https://lnkd.in/dv4y6nuh Founder: Fanie du Toit Adult Basic Education Practitioner (UNISA) Cochlear implantee

A Few Things You Need To Know About Disability 🚨🚨 The Social Model of Disability places emphasis on the situation and not the person. Here's what it means 👇 📌 Disability results from the interaction between an individual with an impairment and barriers that limit their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others. This is based on the social model of disability. Which I believe is a great approach to disability. Inaccessible buildings, a lack of accommodations, or societal attitudes that discriminate against people with disabilities are some of the barriers. A disability is an experience that may be temporary or permanent. However, the Medical Model of disability places emphasis on the individual's impairment or condition itself. 🚨 Nevertheless, the social model is a more solid approach to disability. It is important to apply inclusive language, avoid the use of languages such as "disabled persons" and instead use people's first language, "Persons with disabilities." Based on the medical model, the forms of disabilities may include, but are not limited to: 📌 Vision impairment: which refers to people who are unable to see or partially see because of injury, disease, or a congenital condition. 📌 Hearing impairment: a profound hearing loss or a complete inability to hear sounds. 📌 Mental health conditions: involve conditions, which include bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and personality disorders, that impair how an individual thinks and acts. 📌 Physical Impairment: a condition that affect a person's physical functioning which can result from congenital conditions, accidents, injuries, or illnesses that affect the bodily systems. 📌 Intellectual disability: a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. 📌 Autism spectrum disorder: a developmental condition marked by challenges in social interaction, communication, repetitive behavior, or interests. 📌 Dyslexia: Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily affects reading and language processing. 📌 Dysgraphia: Dysgraphia is characterized by difficulty turning thoughts into written words, despite exposure to adequate instruction and education. 📌 Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia is used to describe learning difficulties in mathematics. 📌 Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by patterns of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. 📌 Neurodevelopmental motor disorders: developmental challenges in learning, control, and execution of motor skills. Such are dyspraia, cerebral palsy, and more. #disabilityinclusion #personswithdisabilities #inclusiveeducation #EducateYouOnDisability

Disability Service Professionals! Are you prepared to fully support deaf students this semester? Tune in to watch as Lore shares one of the helpful tips on enhancing your support for deaf college students: conducting a campus accessibility audit to ensure ALL offices are ready to serve deaf students. Other additional tips: 🎯Center their needs! Talk past accommodations & plan services early. 🎯Quality service providers! Consider field-specific expertise. For more helpful tips, visit: https://lnkd.in/gWC28muV [Video Description: On a white background is black text reading “Centering Deaf Students in the Return to School.” From the center, the NDC logo appears and green and white red shapes animate around it. Lore Kinast, a white woman with long blonde hair sits in a room aside a white bookshelf filled with books and picture frames. She’s wearing a royal blue short sleeved shirt and black teardrop earrings with a pearl in the center. She wears black manicured nails and a black Apple watch. She begins signing in American Sign Language: Speech: I can speak from experience as a student and a disability services professional, sometimes going the entire first week of class with no accommodations or a stopgap solution until the actual services began, was a very frustrating way to begin classes. Start scheduling services ahead of time. Think campus-wide and consider doing a campus audit. Are the various offices, services, and programs accessible to a deaf student? Walk around campus to the different offices to ask departments if they know how to get accommodations if a deaf student comes into their space. If they don’t, make note and develop an action plan for those offices. Meet with them to educate them on the process of making their office accessible, making requests, and interacting with deaf students. Create an inclusive environment to deaf students on campus. Video Description: NDC Logo appears above text, black lettering on a white background: nationaldeafcenter.org “This video was developed under a jointly-funded grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) #HD326D160001. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the positions or policies of the federal government.” Next to it, three logos appear. The first reads “IDEAs that Work” with an arrow drawing a circle from “IDEAs” to “Work” and the words “U.S. Office of Special Education Programs”. The second logo shows a red-and-blue star with text next to it that reads “TA&D”. The third logo shows a blue circle around a tree. In the blue circle are the words “U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.” End of Video Description.] #Deaf #HardOfHearing #HearingLoss #ASL #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #Deafverse #ChooseYourFuture #NationalDeafCenter #DeafCommunity #DeafYouth #DeafTeens #SelfDetermination #SelfAdvocate #Accommodations #Access #Equity #Inclusion #StudentAdvocacy