A deafblind person is likely to explain to you how you can communicate with them, so listen carefully to what they say.
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Try to talk slowly and clearly. Some may be able to hear you speak if you talk slowly and clearly. Keep your hands away from your mouth and face the deafblind person in case they can see enough to lip-read. Try not to stand with your back to a window or light as your face will become shadowed and your lips more difficult to read.
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Fingerspelling. Deafblind people with little or no sight and hearing often use ‘fingerspelling’ also referred to as ‘deafblind manual’, an easy-to-learn method of communication. Learn deafblind manual in 15 minutes
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Block. Some may like to have block capital letters spelt out on their hand. Try to use the whole palm for each letter and keep shapes nice and clear. Find out how to use Block effectively.
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Written notes. Your deafblind customer may like to have things written out for them in large clear black print on a piece of paper.
More information on communicating with deafblind people is available in the communicating with deafblind people section of this website.
