Page 159 - PROOF_ENG

157
Appropriate services, accessed with the help of communication aids, is the single biggest need for dual sensory impairment. An example of need is the availability of guides/communicators to facilitate social interaction and ensure equality of opportunity in accessing services (Orr et al, 2006). Early intervention is, again, crucial. People with dual sensory impairment rely on tactile communication and this is easier to teach whilst individuals are still able to receive audio and visual information. Once people have lost almost all their sight and hearing, highly-skilled practitioners are needed to support people in learning tactile communication skills (RNIB, 2013).
Coping strategies for single sensory loss often rely on the other senses working harder to compensate; audio readers can support those who are unable to read printed materials and those with hearing loss may rely on lip reading. Where both senses are impaired, implications for the individual are profound; the impact of losing both senses is ‘more than the sum of its parts’ (Rotheroe et al, 2013).
Mental health and wellbeing
People with vision impairment have an increased risk of depression (Thomas Pocklington Trust, 2016) and over one-third of older people with sight loss are estimated to be living with this condition (Hodge et al, 2010 cited in Action for Blind People, n.d). The provision of emotional and practical support at the right time can help people who are experiencing sight loss to come to terms with the situation, retain their independence and access the support they need, thus reducing possible triggers for depression (RNIB, 2013).
Research findings suggest that deaf people are more likely than their hearing counterparts to suffer from mental health problems (McClelland et al, 2001). 40% of the deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK are likely to experience a mental health problem at some time in their lives. The culturally deaf (that is, those using British Sign Language (BSL)) have a 50% chance of a mental health crisis (Orr et al, 2006).
Social isolation and loneliness
Research by the Thomas Pocklington Trust identified a significant need among people with a visual impairment for greater social contact (Percival, 2003).
RNID research undertaken in 2000 found that 66% of deaf and hard of hearing people feel isolated due to the fact that their condition excludes them from everyday activities. Research conducted by FMR (a social research consultancy) in 2002, suggests that deaf people experience social exclusion, discrimination, and barriers in access services and facilities because of difficulties in communication (Orr et al, 2006).
People of different ages face distinct and particular issues when sensory loss is not diagnosed. Older people are likely to become more vulnerable, isolated and less independent if visual loss is not diagnosed and addressed. This concern is highlighted in an in-depth interview with a service user who said:
West Wales Population Assessment March 2017 Sensory impairment