A recent article in NPR discusses the challenges that coronavirus safety measures can present for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Though masks with clear face panels have been introduced as a solution for those who read lips, the NPR article points out that not all deaf people lip read, but may communicate via paper and pen.
In other instances, tightened visitors’ restrictions in hospitals may mean that interpreters will be barred from medical appointments, in which case, the deaf person may need to rely on app-based video interpreting services.
Additionally, interpretations of government coronavirus briefings do not always run smoothly. NPR cited an incident where the Baltimore mayor apologized to the deaf community after cutting off an interpreter who was signing what protestors were saying.
To read the article in its entirety, please click here.
Source: NPR
