Deafblindness is a combination of hearing and visual impairments. Each condition is different since the impairments are to varying degrees. Deafblindness results in many communication challenges. Some may be able to see sign language and others may be able to hear some speech. Many different causes are possible stemming from congenital abnormities or challenges later in life. Prenatal complications, like cytomegalovirus, hydrocephaly, or microcephaly, can cause a dual sensory impairment. Some hereditary syndromes, such as Usher or CHARGE, may result in deafblindness. Deafblindness can be acquired from forms of asphyxia, severe head injuries, or meningitis. According to the 2019 National Deaf-Blind Child Count, 10% were “totally blind or had light perception only,” and 31% had “severe to profound hearing loss.” For more information, please visit https://www.nationaldb.org/info-center/deaf-blindness-overview/.
