When a family is navigating the world of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) individuals, they may encounter a variety of terms and acronyms that can be overwhelming. Understanding these terms is crucial for effective communication, advocacy, and support. This post aims to clarify some of the most common DHH terms that families will encounter, helping them to better engage with the community and services available. Read the ENTIRE post for a free handout at the end!
1. Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
The term "Deaf" refers to individuals who have significant hearing loss, typically defined as having a hearing threshold of 70 dB or greater. Many Deaf individuals identify culturally as part of the Deaf community, which values sign language as a primary mode of communication and shares a rich cultural heritage. It’s important to note that "Deaf" is often capitalized to denote this cultural identity, distinguishing it from the medical condition of hearing loss.
2. Hard of Hearing (HOH)
"Hard of Hearing" describes individuals who have varying degrees of hearing loss but may still use spoken language as their primary means of communication. This term encompasses a wide range of hearing abilities, from mild to severe hearing loss. Many hard-of-hearing individuals may benefit from hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices to enhance their auditory experience.
3. IEP (Individualized Education Program)
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document developed for students with disabilities, including those who are Deaf or hard of hearing. The IEP outlines specific educational goals, services, and accommodations tailored to the student’s unique needs. Families play a crucial role in the IEP process, collaborating with educators and specialists to ensure that their child receives appropriate support in the educational setting.
4. Cochlear Implant (CI)
A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted electronic device that provides a sense of sound to individuals who are profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. Families considering this option should consult with audiologists and medical professionals to understand the benefits and challenges associated with cochlear implants.
5. Hearing Aid (HA)
Hearing aids are electronic devices worn in or behind the ear that amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss. They come in various styles and technologies, tailored to meet the specific needs of the user. Families may explore different options and work with audiologists to find the most suitable hearing aid for their loved one.
6. Audiologist (AuD)
The term AuD stands for "Doctor of Audiology." It is a professional degree for audiologists, who are specialists in hearing and balance disorders. An AuD program typically includes advanced study and clinical training, allowing audiologists to assess, diagnose, and manage hearing-related issues.
7 . ASL (American Sign Language)
American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, natural language that has its own grammar and syntax, distinct from English. It is the primary language used by many Deaf individuals in the United States and parts of Canada. Learning ASL can be incredibly beneficial for families with DHH members, as it fosters effective communication and connection.
8. Listening and Spoken Language Specialist (LSLS)
LSLS stands for Listening and Spoken Language Specialists. This term refers to professionals who are trained to support children with hearing loss in developing listening and spoken language skills. The goal of LSLS is to help children who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate effectively using spoken language, often through the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants.
9. Decibel (dB)
A decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement used to express the intensity of sound. It helps us understand how loud or soft a sound is. For example, a whisper is around 30 dB, while a normal conversation is about 60 dB. Sounds above 85 dB, like a lawnmower or loud music, can be harmful to our ears if we’re exposed for too long. So, in simple terms, the decibel scale helps us compare different sounds and understand their potential impact on our hearing.
10. Hertz (Hz)
A Hertz (Hz) is a unit of measurement used to describe sound frequency, which refers to how high or low a sound is. In simple terms, it tells us how many times a sound wave vibrates in one second. For example, a sound with a frequency of 440 Hz is often recognized as the musical note "A" above middle C. Understanding Hertz can help us appreciate the range of sounds we hear every day, from the gentle rustle of leaves to the loud roar of thunder. It's important for everyone, especially those who are Deaf or hard of hearing, to have access to different sounds and frequencies, as this can enhance their experiences and interactions in various environments.
Now that our soup is complete
Understanding these common DHH terms is an essential step for families as they navigate the complexities of hearing loss. By familiarizing themselves with this vocabulary, families can better advocate for their loved ones, communicate effectively, and foster meaningful connections within the DHH community. As the journey continues, ongoing education and engagement will empower families to support their DHH members in achieving their fullest potential.
Do you want the list to share with families and colleagues you work with? Click here for a PDF list of popular terms and acronyms.
(Please note that the original freebie had a spelling error. It has since been updated to correct for this.)