Sensory Loss Team - dual sensory loss

The term dual sensory loss is used when a person has both a sight loss and a hearing loss. Some people have a period of time between loosing their sight and hearing so have perhaps adjusted to one loss already, for others the dual loss might occur simultaneously.

In any case, having a dual sensory loss can cause many difficulties both emotionally and practically for both the person and their family or carer. The key information to note is that help and advice is readily available.

Sensory Services Officers (SSO) - Dual Sensory Loss (DSL)

These staff are specially trained to work with adults who are experiencing difficulties due to both their sight and hearing loss - called a dual sensory loss. They will visit you at your home and complete an assessment to find out what your individual needs are so they are then able to create a plan to meet these needs.

Some examples of the issues that they can help with are listed below

• Communication
  Using the telephone, using computers, one to one conversations or dealing with group situations.

• Information
  Local and national support groups/organisations, transport options for disabled persons, domestic services, how to become registered with a dual sensory loss.

• Mobility
  How to keep yourself safe when walking at home or outside, navigation and orientation, planning safe routes and using a red and white cane.

• Equipment
  Items to help you use the telephone, make a hot drink safely, watch the TV, specialist lighting, hearing the smoke alarm or using the oven/microwave safely.

• Social contact
  People with a dual sensory loss who have become isolated can be supplied with information on local support groups, social groups and befriending services. Support can be given to family and friends wanting to learn useful methods of clear communication with a person.with a dual sensory loss

• Onward referrals
  Examples include specialist benefits advisors or employment advisors, Occupational Therapy for help with adaptations to the home, home delivery food services or the local support groups/teams.

Please note

If you have a dual sensory loss but are experiencing difficulties that only relate to your sight loss or to your hearing loss (not both) then please view our sight loss / hearing loss pages for information and advice.

If you have a dual sensory loss and use British Sign language then please view our Deaf Sign language users page for more information.