Deaf-blind people are individuals.  They have different backgrounds. different likes and dislikes, different talents and different vices.  The keys to dealing with deaf-blind people as in dealing with all people are: COURTESY, FLEXIBILITY and COMMON SENSE.  What follows is therefore, a list of guidelines or suggestions to be considered and applied to specific situations.

COURTESY
1. When you approach a deaf-blind person let her know by a gentle touch on the hand that you are near.  Touching the hand is less startling than a touch on the back or arm.  Do not "hit and run".  Tapping makes her look for your hands again.  If you touch her hands gently and slide your hands underneath hers she will know that you want to communicate.

2. Identify yourself every time you meet.  Even if he is partially sighted or usually knows the touch of your hands it is always nice to be reassured.  It also saves possible confusion and embarrassment (yours and his).  Perhaps you can work out a simple but special signal for quickly identifying yourself (a name sign).

3. Don't ever play the "who am I" game.  It is aggravating in the extreme.  "Do you remember me?  We met at ... (don't you) remember?" is also irksome.  Assume she does not remember you then be pleasantly surprised if she does.

 4. When talking with a deaf-blind friend, do not tease by poking, tickling, jostling etc. unless s/he knows it's coming.  Have you ever been startled by an unexpected slap on the back or a poke in the ribs?  Hearing and vision are "distance senses".   They warn us of what is coming, even from nearby.

 5. Be flexible about communication.  She may not fit your preconceived idea of how deaf-blind people communicate, so be open not dogmatic.  The basic questions are about modality, primary language, and fluency.  If you don't know her, start with tactile, medium speed, modified ASL.   This is the "default" position.  As she responds you can naturally modify your communication to make it more clear and comfortable for you both.

 6. Respect his person.  Communication takes longer and is often very difficult for us, but it is essential to our dignity.  Do not move his hand for him, put him into a chair, grip his thumb when signing (so that his hand does not slip off) or otherwise treat him like an object.

 7. If a deaf-blind person is alone in a room let her know if 1) you will be going in and out,  2) you have come in to work too, or 3) you are leaving.  It is embarrassing to belch or adjust a bra strap and then find out someone was there.  It is embarrassing too to ask a question only to find out you are talking to thin air.  We all need to know when we are alone (and have our privacy) and when we are not.  We all need times when we are certainly alone and can fully relax.

 8. If you are in a deaf-blind person's home do not be tempted to use your vision to snoop or spy.

 9. Think of partial vision as useful but totally unreliable.  Tunnel or other kinds of partial vision can be confusing to us and we may mistakenly assume we see more or see better than we actually do.  Whenever possible 1) describe what you are talking about clearly, 2) let her touch it rather than merely pointing at it.  If her field of vision is very small it is hard for her to locate objects visually.

Moving objects or things that are far away, are especially hard to find visually. Even once she has located it, she may have trouble focusing.

 10. Take her to the object itself and let her touch it.  It will help her focus thereby letting her actually see it better too.  She will get more information from touching it as well.

11. Guide his hand to objects by leading with yours.  Let his hand rest lightly on the back of  your hand as you move it slowly towards what you want to touch.  When you make contact, slowly slip your hand out from underneath.  This works for objects you want to show him for whatever reason.  It might be just so he can explore it, or it might be a handrail on the stairs, or even a drink or snack.

 12. If you visit a deaf-blind person's home be sure to leave things as they are.  Poor vision makes it even easier to spill or knock things over.  You can imagine "finding" a glass of water on a previously bare counter, or "coming across" a chair that is (surprise!) away from the table.  It is also frustrating and time consuming to have to look for knitting you left "right there".  Half open doors or cupboards are a particular painful (forgive the pun).  Please be sure that they are completely opened or completely closed.

 13.  Don't worry about messiness.  That comes from doing things without sight.   Relax and enjoy.  You can be messier too.

 14. Remember to communicate about what you are doing.  Don't just move him or hand him objects without an explanation.  He will know how to reach for it, or cooperate by stepping back  if he understands what is going on.  If you must move him suddenly for safety, explain the reasons for your actions afterward.

 15.  Consider expense when planning outings or thinking of gifts.  Poverty is often a factor.  Many deaf-blind people are either unemployed or work at low paying jobs.  The result is that they often have little or no money for "extras".

 16. Offer help if it looks appropriate.  It hurts to always have to ask.  For the same reason try to be unobtrusive and subtle in the giving of help.

 17. Ask her to join you in your tasks.  Assume she is as willing to walk as anyone of her age, as willing and able to carry things as anyone of her size and build.  Silly as it is we sometimes think of deaf-blind people as fragile and we hesitate to ask them to walk far or help us carry things.  Unless the deaf-blind person is very old or has another disability she will probably enjoy both the exercise and the opportunity to join you and to share life's chores with you.  On the other hand, if she has been forced into a very sedentary life by her blindness, start slowly until she has had an opportunity to get in shape.

 18. Do let the deaf-blind person think for herself.  Give her options.  Give her as much information as possible, then let her make the decisions for herself.  Do not make assumptions that she is hungry or not hungry etc.  Don't cut her meat etc. without first offering.  Give her time to think about it.  A pause of a few seconds may well mean she is considering, not that she has no idea.  If she has little or no experience of the option see if you can try a little of each and then have time to consider.

 19. Personal items such as wallets, purses and keys should not be touched unless you are asked..  A deaf-blind person can handle her own money, pay the check herself, open her own doors etc.  She may ask you to take the money to the cashier or she may prefer to go with you to the cashier but she probably will get the money out herself.

Along this line of thought be sure not to move her coat, cane etc. without first telling her.  Even if you hang it up for her, tell her where so that when she is ready to leave she knows where her things are and does not have to find you or ask someone to look for them.

20.  Do not be offended or discouraged if the deaf-blind person asks to go home or seems to be unenthusiastic about suggested plans.  Isolation and loneliness are surely the central facts of deaf-blind.  There is a hunger for human companionship.  Deaf-blind people therefore treasure true friends.  Understanding this we must still recognize that the best of friends are not always welcome.  There are times when we are exhausted, when we have other plans, when we have chores that must be done, etc.

 21. Plan things in advance so he knows what to expect and can plan accordingly.  Being deaf-blind requires more organization and planning than being sighted and hearing.   It also lets him enjoy the anticipation of a pleasant event or allay any unnecessary fears.  Try not to make last minute changes.  If for any reason plans must change, explain the situation and plan another get-together soon.

22. Consider everything you say to be a promise and follow through.  We often make simple statements which are really promises such as "I'll stop by tomorrow on my way home." "I'll be right back."  "I want you to come over for dinner some time."   Sometimes we don't really mean "tomorrow" but "soon".  Sometimes we already know we can't do what we say we will, but we wish we could.  For someone who cannot drive, has limited access to phone and bus, who has a small circle of friends, this is especially disappointing.

 23. Respect the deaf-blind person's privacy and dignity.  Do not ask very personal questions unless you are close friends.  Do not pass on information you may know about her without her knowledge and permission.

GUIDING

Guiding is not really difficult.  Just remember that you are two people wide.  The cardinal rules of guiding are:
• pay attention,
• take your time,
• be consistent,
•  when in doubt, talk it over.

Pay Attention
One of the easiest ways to walk someone into a pole or low branch is to be looking at something else (like a friend across the way).  There are many things in the environment to distract us, and we are very used to our own body size.  It takes conscious attention  however to walk safely when we suddenly double that.
 

Take Your Time
It is harder to change at the last minute, to compensate for a difference in the surface such as bumps, ramps or hoses across the path.  If,  however,  you are walking at a moderate to slow, steady pace, there is time.  Balance is better too.
This also refers to taking time to discuss things, to inform the DEAF-BLIND person of what is there, or any unusual sights that catch your eye.  If you are tempted to look away at something, pause to do so.  Tell her about it.  Don't rush on.

Be Consistent
Both guiding and following a guide take mental energy.  It is more relaxing for you both if your guiding is consistent.  When your pace is steady until you come to steps etc. this lets the DEAF-BLIND person know he can cruise, coming to attention when your pace changes.  It's the same idea when you use the same signals time after time to mean the same thing.  He can interpret what they mean without really having to think about it.  Consistency also lets you both predict more easily.  All of this makes for a smoother trip.

When in Doubt, Talk it Over
Sometimes you look at an aisle and you are just not sure whether or not you can both fit through.  Pause and say so.  Sometimes, you see a choice between a few steps and a ramp and you're not sure which to use.  Ask.

Specific Points
 1. In walking let her take your arm.  Never "handle her" or push her ahead of you.  She will walk slightly behind vou and your natural body movements will be enough to let her know you are turning etc.

2. Walk at a normal. steady pace.  Slow down for irregularities. like bumps. ramps. or other changes in the surface.  This will alert him so that he can use his cane,  look at the ground, or not, but in any event, he will be expecting some change and not be surprised.

 3. Stairs
 Let her use the handrail on the stairs.  Many deaf-blind people have poor balance. Often simply pausing at the beginning of the stairs is enough.  She will slide her foot forward,  feel the step and look for the handrail.  If she needs more information or help, and if she is guiding on your right elbow, gently take her hand with your left hand and place it on the handrail.
 If she expects the stairs, you can often simply approach at a normal pace, make a slight pause, take the first step, pause again then proceed; the deaf-blind person can tell from your  body whether the stairs go up or down.  Sometimes you can approach the stairs so that his outside arm slightly touches the railing.  Make sure you are set before proceeding.

 4. Escalators
 Let her know you are getting on one before you do so.  Approach as you would stairs, pausing for her to grasp the handrail and locate the steps.  Step onto the escalator with a decisive, but not rushed, step.

 5. Stops
 Let him know why you've stopped.  There are many times you will have to stop or pause - at steps, curbs, waiting for a light, waiting for an elevator, avoiding pedestrians, waiting in line.  If it is not immediately obvious why you are pausing, especially if he looks puzzled or curious, it is nice to let him know the reason for the pause.

 6. Doors
 Doors can be tricky.  The guide always goes through first.
• Pushing through the door when it opens away from you is usually easy enough.
• When the door opens toward you on her side, pull it back and hand it to her.
• When the door opens toward you on your side, signal her to get behind you (see "narrowing spaces" below), open the door and go on through.

 7. Narrow spaces
 Signal the narrowing and move slower.  Pulling your elbow closer to and slightly behind you or putting your arm across your waist behind your back. will indicate that the space is narrowing and that he should move behind you.  Some DEAF-BLIND people will put their hand on your shoulder, some will leave it on your elbow.

 8. Vehicles
 When getting into a vehicle, you can place your hands on the door handle, slide yours out from underneath, letting her open the door, enter, and close the door on her own.  If the door is already open, place one of her hands on the roof edge and her other hand on top of the door or the back of the seat.  If you want her to get into the back seat of a two door car, you should let her know, as otherwise this will be confusing.  You should also tell her if it is a van, or any other unusual circumstance.

 9. Seating
 In guiding a deaf-blind person to a free standing chair, simply place his hand on the back or arm of the chair.  Entering booths in restaurants or table - chair combinations place his hand on the table edge and slide it in the direction you wish him to go.  For theater style seats it is easiest to lead into the row to the two vacant seats, place his hand on the arm rest and sit down.  For other trickier seats such as stools, explain the situation first, then place his hand on it.

 10. Keep her informed.  It is easy to forget that the DEAF-BUND person does not automatically know why everyone has to move now, or that you have stopped at the store first on your way to the meeting.  Remember to tell the deaf-blind person where you are and who is present.  Vision gives us context with which to understand what we hear.  It is important to interpret what people say, but remember to fill in some of the visual context too as you can.  Telling her about incidentals is nice even when it has nothing to do with what people are saying.  It gives the trip some texture, or color.

 11. NEVER just abandon a deaf-blind person!  This doesn't mean you have to take him home, it does mean vou should talk about it.  Expect that leaving will take some time.  It's a good idea to let him know when you arrive that you will be leaving about such and such a time.  That lets him plan better and if he is saving a piece of juicy news for you, or if he knows that he wants to be dropped off at a different place than usual, he can figure the timing.  If you are just chatting at a party, you might check to see if there is anyone else he would like to talk with, or any particular place he would like to be (for example on the couch).

 12.  If you are escorting a deaf-blind person. always tell her when you are leaving for a bit. (e.g. to go to the bathroom, to chat with someone else while she is busy).  Don't just walk off.  She may want to sit down.  If she is not sitting, she may need something substantial to touch (to keep her bearings) while you are gone.  At least try to find a spot where she will not be standing in the midst of pedestrian traffic, sitting in the blazing sun or waiting in some other uncomfortable place.  When you first arrive, see that she knows where she is, who is there etc

 13. When accompanying a deaf-blind person, keep sufficiently close so that by physical contact he will know you are there, or at least keep an eye on him in case he seems to be looking for you.  Often this is "knee to knee" or "toe to toe" while you are seated.

 14.  Do not try to watch signs and attend to the environment at the same time.  Some deaf-blind people enjoy talking - signing while walking.  There will be moments, however, when you must attend to traffic or whatever.  A simple squeeze of her hand or the "wait"' sign will let her know she must wait a moment.  Let her know when all is clear and you are free to listen/talk again.  Talking while going up or down stairs or while crossing a street is not a good idea.  You need your eyes and concentration at these times.

15.  If you are talking or walking and you are interrupted by someone, let the deaf-blind person know why you stopped.  Interpret conversations if possible and try to include him in the conversation.  If that is not possible, excuse yourself and return to the deaf-blind person.  It is very annoying to have to stand by in ignorance while your friend chats at length with someone else.

 • Do remember that you are his eyes and ears.  When time permits, let him know about "the news" like new buildings going up, shops closing down, new landscaping projects etc. that you have noticed on your drives through town.

COMMUNICATION
Communication: a link, union, bridge, closeness, attachment. confluence, interinvolvement enlightenment, awakening, benefaction, presence, celebration, communion, sacrament.

Communication with a deaf-blind person is a very individual thing.  The best way to communicate will depend on:
• active or primary language (ASL, English, or something else)
• does she rely primarily on hearing, vision or touch for input
• how fluent or comfortable is he in communicating
• the environment. specifically lighting, glare, noise and echo.

Regardless of the person's native language, you will have to adjust your way of communicating.  In general, it will have to be a little slower, a little extra clear, and more thought will have to be given to a) the physical environment b) the context and c) organization of your thoughts.
 

Language and Modality
 1. When meeting a deaf-blind person for the first time, take your time to let her show vou how to communicate best.  She may prefer to touch your hands while you sign, or she may ask you to move to take better advantage of the light, or her "better ear."

•   She may be a highly skilled communicator, fluent in ASL and more English ways of signing,     and used to reading signs tactually from many different people.
• She may read signs visually in good light and tactually in dimly lit areas.
• She may be more comfortable with one language or the other (i.e. ASL or a more English way of signing with lots of fingerspelling).  She may read signs tactually all the time, or visually all the time.
• She may even be new to signing and fairly isolated.  Some deaf-blind people were not born deaf, but have gradually lost their hearing.  Like other deafened people, they are trying, as adults, to learn to sign and how to cope with the disability all at once.  As she loses her hearing (in addition to her vision) she may lose her job, contact with old friends and workmates, possibly even having to move to a new area.  The combination of losses and required new skills can be overwhelming.  In this case she will understand best when communication is brief, slow and well organized. (Make especially sure that the topic and context are clear and that information flows in a predictable, logical order.) In any case, it may take a little time to get used to your particular way of communicating, your hands and unique way of talking about things.  As you gain experience, you will learn how to modify your signs for deaf-blind people.  Select what you say to be particularly interesting, and relevant to her.  Speed will come with time.  Focus on respect and clarity.

Organization
 1. There will always be a certain amount of guesswork on the part of the DEAF-BLIND person  listening to us.  At this time, there is no natural language that is tactile.  Natural languages are spoken (e.g. English, Russian) and those that are signed (e.g. ASL, LSQ), are not accessible to a person who is deaf and blind.  Any tactile communication is an adaptation of a spoken/signed language.  There are some ways we can chance the organization of what we say, to make it more clear.

2. Make sure the topic is clear.  State it first.  Once he knows "what you are talking about" your point will be much more clear.

 3. Identify the time frame early.  When you are using PSE, the verbs don't have tense and it is easy to get confused about when it is that you are talking about.  Make sure you are clear about when all this happened before you go too far.

 4. Make sure it is clear who, what or where your pronouns refer to.  Some of this quite obvious "Put it over there." requires some indication of what "it" is and where "there" is.

 5. Preface comments with important background information.  This context helps us to be more clear too.  For example: to say "Please move." or "We all have to move now." is more clear if she knows the reason.  Is she the only one being asked to move?  Is it to accommodate the interpreter?  Is it to accommodate a larger than expected crowd?  Is it so they can widen the aisle to move something past?  Will we move right back?  Beyond this, having the context (e.g. there is a bigger than expected crowd) will not only help her to understand the immediate request to move, but it will help her understand later comments better too (e.g. "They ran out of refreshments before I got there."). Finally, knowing it helps her both understand how to move the chair, and to feel more a part of the group.

 6. Give verbal context too.  I'm sure you have had the experience of hearing only the punch line to a joke and not getting the humor.  Sometimes what you have to say requires some background.  It may be a summary of what others have been saying.  It may be some information that most of us know simply because we have hearing or vision (e.g. a popular TV show) but which he may be missing.

 7. If you must sign slower than usual, don't eliminate the pauses.  They too are an important part of the communication.  They should be proportionate.  If you are signing slower, pauses should be longer.  Rhythm is an important part of communication.

 8. Be careful what shortcuts you take.  Be sure your condensed massages are still clear.  When communication is slow it is easier to get confused.

 9. Repetition or restatement is often good.  Actually, the point is redundancy, or having several ways of getting the same information.  This is especially true of key points.

Feedback
10.  Each time she reaches out her hand (even slightly) for some response, give one.  Your response might be a "yes" or "yeah" or an open handed palm up "What can I say?",  in place of a head not, a grin or shrugged shoulders.

 11.  You must interrupt to let her know if you're lost and not understandings.  You must give her occasional "yes" signs to let her know you understand.  If you check as you go along, you will learn to read each other better. with subtler cues and your communication will get easier.

 12. Some people use special signals for these responses: a light pat or two for an "um hm"; your hand resting on his arm raises and rests again gently patting.  Two or three firmer pats signal "yes", one firm pat for "no".  This type of signaling is mostly used with deaf-blind people who use their voice or speech rather than signing to talk.

 13. If he begins holding tighter, or squeezing slightly, this often means he is having difficulty understanding.  Slow down and use pauses to see if this helps.

 14. Include other people's reactions.  This too is feedback.

Accommodating Vision/Hearing Differences
 15. If he is watching visually, sign smaller.  Central vision is always best, whether a person has tunnel vision, or simply very blurry vision.  While it is almost always better to sign a little slower a little smaller and a little higher, distance will vary.

 16. For deaf-blind people with tunnel vision:
 • touch her hand to get her attention;
 •   make sure the lighting is on you, and not in her eyes;
 •   make sure you're in a good position for her (close enough or far enough back); she can help you by telling you where she understands best;
 •   keep your signing confined to a small area near your face.  You can get some idea of how big her tunnel of good vision is by watching her eyes.  When you sign, do they look at your eyes or your hands?  How much do her eyes have to move to follow your hands?

 17. For people with blurry vision:
 • your approach will usually be enough to signal your intent to talk;
 •   make sure the lighting is on you, and not in her eyes;
 •   make sure the lighting is on the "front" of your hands (i.e. if you are right handed the light should be slightly from your left and vice versa)
 •   make sure you're close enough:
 • sign somewhat slowly, especially fingerspelling;
 • keep your singing confined to a small area near your face.

 18. If he is listening tactually:
 • sign somewhat lower than usual (this will conserve his energy and yours.): or rest your hands on your lap, the table etc. when the opportunity arises;
 • give feedback (remember she cannot see smiles and nods of understanding or frowns of puzzlement).  This feedback is an important part of communication. (See below.)

 19. If she is listening auditorilly:
 • she may have a better ear, sit where she can use it
 •   try to sit away from the music or other noise
 •   conversations with one person at a time are easier to follow than group conversations even though she hears pretty well.
 

 Further Considerations
 20. Lighting is very important to good vision for partially sighted people.  Lighting should
 be bright but without glare.  It should be shining on you, with no shadows on your face or signing hand.  Be sure the deaf-blind person does not have the sun or a bright light in his eyes as that can make any remaining vision useless.  You can always ask him if he is comfortable or would prefer the shade pulled etc.  Avoid sitting where glare from white surfaces, water etc. will reflect in his face.

 21. Make sure you are seated comfortably.  If you are signing tactually, make sure you have support for your back.  Leaning forward will cause a backache very quickly.  Moving in very close, and using chair arms, or pillows is often helpful.  It's a good idea to raise one leg above the other by resting it on a little stool, a chair rung etc. is also helpful.

 22.  Make sure you are on the same level.  It is tiring to sign for a long time with one person seated and the other standing.  For longer conversations both of you should be sitting or standing.

 23. If you are signing two-handed it is probably most comfortable to sit facing one another with your knees interlocking.  If you're signing or fingerspelling one-handed it is comfortable to sit at an angle (45-90 degrees).  It is less tiring than being side by side.  You will find a position that is comfortable for both of you, but it is important not to be too shy to move in close enough.  Experiment.  Discuss it.

24. For tactile signing, use strong but gentle motions.  His hands on yours may make you feel restricted.  Try to keep your signs crisp and clear,  firm without being abrupt or wild.

 25. When signing, don't duck your head and shoulders down to make a sign.  The placement and orientation of your hands is important (e.g. father/mother. fine/Russian. taste/sick).  Hunching also cramps your signs, making them small, hard to understand and making you more tired.

 26. If her hands are heavy it may mean she is tired or it may mean she is having a hard time following you.  Some people squeeze or hang on when they are not understanding.  Try slowing down and checking to be sure your pauses are long enough to help clarity.

 27. Sign right handed or left handed but don't switch back and forth mid-paragraph.  People who sign well use both hands, switching back and forth in beautiful rhythm.  If the deaf-blind person is using one hand to listen and the signer switches then part of the message is missed.  Sometimes the hand on yours listening makes it feel "full" and you automatically start signing with the other.

 28. Some DEAF-BLIND people prefer fingerspelling only.  How they read this fingerspelling is very individual.  Some read it very rapidly, some do not.  Usually, he will shift his hand to where it is comfortable for him.  Again, respect and clarity are the most important.  Speed will come.

 29. If you are signing PSE and must fingerspell often, shift the position of your hand before fingerspelling a word.  This shift moves your hand slightly further under hers.  It places her hand in a somewhat better position for reading fingerspelling and it also signals the switch to fingerspelling.

 30. Whether you are spelling continuously or mixing fingerspelling with signing, your wrist and small muscles will get tired.  Support your spelling hand with the other hand.  Keep your wrist straight.  This helps avoid strain.

Communication Etiquette
 31. No rings or bracelets please, and keep fingernails trim.

 32. Beyond the regular being clean, wash your hands often.  Do not take offense if he asks you to smoke elsewhere.  Go easy on the perfume or other scents.  Hygiene is especially important when you must touch each other to communicate.

 33. Don't ask a question or begin a conversation if it might prove embarrassing to have it overheard.  Warn him if others enter the area.  If you don't see or hear other people it is easy to forget they are there or that they may be listening.

 34.  When a hearing-sighted person is busy working on something or talking to someone and a friend walks by and speaks to him briefly, it is only a slight interruption.  She can respond briefly or "mmph" or wave etc. in reply without looking up and without really interrupting her train of thought.  When a deaf-sighted person is busy working on something or talking to someone and a friend walks by and speaks to him briefly, it calls his eyes and attention away; it is an interruption.  Therefore, it is polite to speak "in passing" only when the deaf person is free to look at you easily.  Even starting a longer conversation should be done with this in mind.  It is best to approach and wait to be noticed or until the deaf person is at a stopping point.  When a deaf-blind person is busy working on something or talking to someone and a friend walks by and speaks to him briefly, it is a major interruption.  Communication always requires full attention, physical and mental.  Therefore, it is really polite to speak to a deaf-blind friend in passing only when she appears to be not busy.  However, when she is not busy it is always a pleasure to have some contact with friends even if it is brief.

 35.  Try to maintain a balance between relaxed, unhurried communication and the pressures of the world.  Time is a huge issue.  There is never enough of it when we are enjoying ourselves.  On the one hand, don't rush the conversation.  Communication may take more time than you're used to.  Doing things certainly does.  It's important to take time
 to really understand both thoughts and feelings as well their context.  On the other hand, be clear about your time constraints.  Be realistic, you have many things to do and need time for yourself too.  Plan before you meet, or even before you agree to meet.  Tell him ahead of time when you will have to leave.  That way he can plan the time better so that he does not feel cut off.  Two hours is a nice block of time (if you do not have to travel at all).  It is long enough to get into subjects thoroughly and short enough so that you (both) do not get too tired.

 36. If others are watching, encourage them to try.  Some may be very interested. but shy or self conscious.  Start by interpreting, then suggest they try themselves.  Stay nearby to help out or relieve them.  You might give them a few hints (e.g. whether to fingerspell or sign).  If they've watched you they may already have the idea.

Touch
 37. Try to communicate your personality through touch.  Who you are and how you intend
 something comes through your hands.  When a person cannot see and hear well. touch becomes very important.  It brings most information and data.  It gives aesthetic pleasure.  Touch is the link to other people.  A deaf-blind person must know from touch both what you say and how you feel about it.  He must also learn through touch how you feel about him.  Are you nervous?  Do you withdraw?  Are you warm and friendly or tired and bored?

 38. Maintaining physical contact is reassuring.  It lets the deaf-blind person get some feedback on how you're feeling, how you're reacting and what you're thinking.  It also makes it easy to get your attention if the deaf-blind person wants to say something.  At first you may be uncomfortable "holding hands" while not actually talking but almost no conversation continues non-stop and these pauses soon seem as natural as in any conversation.

 39. As your friendship and trust grow, touch will include more than a hand on yours "listening".  It will include an occasional squeeze or stroke, a pat on the back, walking close and hug of greeting or farewell.  A word of caution must be inserted here.  Some people (deaf-blind or not) are shy or private people and do not feel comfortable with much body contact.   Use judgment (particularly with members of the opposite sex) and take time to know each other as individuals.  Try to think of ways to communicate through touch, to make up for the missed smiles and chuckles, frowns and harumphs.

  40. Touch also lets the DEAF-BLIND person know who you are in terms of style.  Some DEAF-BLIND people like to touch to find out how tall you are, your hair style, what kinds of clothes you wear (e.g. jeans or skirts) and so on.  Some of us are more comfortable with this kind of touch than others.  Of course this kind of exploration when you first meet is rather bold, but as you develop a relationship, be prepared for this gentle touch of exploration.

INTERPRETING
For those of you who are sign language interpreters or have interpreted between Deaf and hearing people, here are some guidelines for interpreting with people who are also blind.

Role/Tasks
The role of an interpreter for deaf-blind people is essentially the same (to facilitate communication).  It is different from the role of interpreter for Deaf people in that the tasks that are required to perform that role are different.

Role is distinct from ethics.  The basic issues of respect for the integrity, privacy and so on of a DEAF-BLIND client is no different than it is for a Deaf person.

 1. You must report the visual environment as well as the auditory environment.  This does not  mean you must tell him everything you see (e.g. height of the ceiling, color of the walls) any more than you tell a deaf person everything you hear (buzz of the lights, typewriters down the hall).  But it does mean that you do tell him everything of significance (e.g. someone entering the room, expression and mood of the speaker, size of the group, whose hand is raised).

 2. When it is not appropriate to ask that things be slowed down, it may be necessary to edit, to summarize, to pick out the main points or ideas and interpret these.  This is because you may be interpreting using a slow method and it may be impossible to keep up. You will certainly have more to interpret (i.e. the visual and auditory environment).  This analysis and condensing requires great communication skill to do well.  It requires even more judgment than an interpreter must ordinarily use.

 3. Deaf-blind people will need a guide when they are in unfamiliar places.  You may be asked to act as sighted guide, reader, or to provide transportation.  You should make sure that all these expectations are clarified (and negotiated) before you take the assignment.

 4. As you can see, interpreting assignments with deaf-blind people often take extra energy.  There is more to think about, as well as more to do.  You must think about this when you are negotiating the assignment.  You may want to ask for a second interpreter for even a relatively short assignment.  You may need to insist on more breaks.  Especially for longer assignments, one suggestion is that drivers, guides and readers (who can sign) be arranged to relieve the interpreters.  In any case, you must consider these extra demands on your energy and time.

 5. One other aspect of the interpreting role that is the same but perhaps intensified is that of host or facilitator, helping everyone to feel relaxed and comfortable.  This will include deaf people, hearing people and your deaf-blind client.  Many people (deaf or hearing) are quite uptight about communicating with a deaf-blind person.  He may feel quite shy himself.  Your mood will help set the tone for the others.

The Text
 6. Interpreting for deaf-blind people is unique in that you are often interpreting in groups and signing not only what is being said by hearing people but also what is being signed by deaf people or even other deaf-blind people.  Sometimes this is called "copy signing" or "shadowing".  This leads to the question, should you always parrot their signs or should you sometimes change them?  In fact, the question is the same as in any interpretation for Deaf people: How much are we accommodating the modality (auditory to visual etc.) and how much are we accommodating the language and culture (ASL to English)?  Given the imbalance in opportunities, how much are we  accommodating the differences in background information etc.? On the one hand, it is good to keep as much of the original as possible, to retain the individuality and style of the speaker as far as you can.  On the other hand, how valuable is this style and mood without any content?  How important is it that she know what was said in relation to how it was said?  To answer these questions, we must look at the effects of our changes?  Does it take away power or preserve it, infantilize or empower the DEAF-BLIND person?  This question is the crucial one.

 7. Change phases such as "It's the yellow one." "Do you want some of this?" to make them clear (e.g. "It's the square one." "Do you want some apple juice?").

The Context
The deaf-blind client, as mentioned above, relies on you to convey much more information than just what is said.  Just as the environment or context is important background for clear communication when you are just talking, so too it is important in interpretation.

 8. Always identify who is speaking.  Pointing is usually not enough.  In the interest of speed and accuracy it is often best to identify each speaker by his/her name sign.  If you don't know it then spell out the name.  Sometimes of course you will be in a group where you do not know the name of the person speaking.  Your next choice should be to identify the person by function or title such as the secretary, treasurer, police officer, nurse etc.  If this information too is unknown to you the speaker should still be identified in some way such as "a tall man" or "woman with an orange blouse".  Even though the DEAF-BLIND person is unable to see height or color  they get a handle on which to hang all the  comments/questions of this one person.  Preferably you would pick something indicative of the speaker's personality "man, fancy suit",  "woman,  Indian-dress".  This does several things:
 a) the deaf-blind person can know if several remarks are made by the same speaker
 b) the deaf-blind person can begin to develop a sense of each speaker's views, opinions, and personality
 c) after the meeting s/he can easily ask that you find out the name of one of the speakers identifying her by your own code rather than by having to recap all that she said
 d) it relieves the interpreter from having to remember and sort out later who said what.  If the deaf-blind listener has some tunnel vision s/he may also want to look at the speaker so pointing in the direction of the speaker will help locate as well as identify her/him.  This is, however, only a supplement and usually insufficient to rely on.

 9. Be sure to convey the mood as well as the content of what is said.  While one's hands alone do convey some of the mood, they do not conveys much as hands, face and body convey all together.  You may have to state mood specifically e.g.  Maggie, teasing says "Where have you been?."  Give people's reactions as well (e.g. "Jerry looks puzzled").  If the speaker is signing wildly, angrily, you should do that too, but keep your signs clear.  It is best to state the mood first BEFORE you interpret what is said.  This is the order in which we ordinarily perceive it and it prevents the deaf-blind person feeling insulted only to find out afterward it was all a joke.  It is hard to get unangry then.

10. If you do quite a bit of interpreting for the same deaf-blind individual, it might be good to work out a set of private inconspicuous signals to indicate mood or listeners reaction to what she is saying (e.g. a simple touch for a positive reaction, such as close attention or a smile, a squeeze for teasing, joking or laughter, a gentle poke or nudge to indicate hostility or anger).  The two of you would, of course, have to work this out.

 11. It is very helpful to have a recap session afterward to summarize and make clear, the main points of the meeting or class etc. just ended.  Groups may move ahead quite rapidly, and you might not have time to include enough to make everything crystal clear.  This too should be negotiated ahead of time.  In any case you should be aware that requests for repetition, elaboration or clarification from the deaf-blind person are not necessarily indications of inattentiveness.

The Physics of Interpreting
 12. If you are interpreting vocally from a deaf-blind person's signs be sure to be:
a)   far enough away to read his signs clearly, and
b)   close enough to give him feedback.
He will need to know if his audience agrees, disagrees, interrupts etc.  You may also miss a sign or phrase occasionally and need to touch him to interrupt briefly to clarify.  Remember the deaf-blind person cannot monitor you to see how well you are following him.

 13.   The deaf-blind person may well have some usable vision and may want to watch you instead of or as well as receive signs tactilely.  In this case all the usual guidelines for interpreting apply
 1) good distance (varies according to vision of deaf-blind person)
 2) good lighting
 3) plain, contrasting clothing
 4) good mouth movements for lipreaders.

 14. Besides the choices of
 1) platform interpreter and
 2) tactile interpreter, there are
 3) small group and
 4) one on one close vision interpreter.

 The small group interpreter is in effect, a platform interpreter for a small group of people who need a combination of less distance (being closer) and signing in a smaller area to accommodate tunnel vision.

 15.  For DEAF-BLIND people watching the platform interpreter it is best to a have very good (bright) lighting focused on the interpreter.  It is also, important to have a solid dark background that is non reflective.  A black or navy blue cloth draped over the wall is good.

 16. For meetings, see if an FM loop or other assistive listening device would be useful.  Some deaf-blind people are able to benefit tremendously from them.  They are sometimes available from a hearing and speech center.

 17. Of course, the platform interpreter will need to copy the signs of people in the audience, but she may also have to copy what the main speaker (signer) is saving.  Sometimes the light is not good enough for people with poor vision to see.  Sometimes the signer has on a light colored shirt or clothes that do not offer enough contrast.  Sometimes the turn taking is too rapid for them to follow.

 18. DEAF-BLIND speakers will need their own interpreter.  This interpreter will relay what the audience is doing, when they are settled and ready to attend, who has their hands raised, audience feedback etc.

Rapport
 19. Be human.  Many deaf people have told me how important it is to them that their
 interpreter be someone whose presence they enjoy.  This is equality true of deaf-blind people perhaps even more because often the interpreter acts as guide and companion during breaks.  Because you cannot convey your interest and "friendly self" through the usual smiles, eye contact and relaxed body posture. it is important that vou have opportunity to chat and get acquainted - time other than strictly interpreting.  You need not "become a friend" you need only "be friendly" which necessitates (in this case) a little extra time and conversation.  This is important because it affects the actual interpreting process.  It is analogous to a good "bedside manner" which affects the healing process.

 20. Develop a good team.  One of the pleasures of interpreting for DEAF-BUND people is the opportunity to work with (large) teams of interpreters.  So often our field is isolating.

SUMMARY
The primary fact of deaf-blindness is loneliness and isolation.  Consider how important communication is to a human being.  Communication, stimulation and companionship are essential to life as a human being.  Understand burning need.  On the other hand, for any relationship to be rewarding and lasting or a true friendship there must be give and take.  You, the hearing/sighted person, must be getting some benefit out of the relationship.  Maybe the deaf-blind person is a stimulating conversationalist, maybe she has a wonderful spirit full of warmth and joy, maybe she has things to teach you, maybe you enjoy watching her grow and learn, maybe you enjoy seeing life through a different perspective.  In any event, you must allow the deaf-blind person the pleasure of giving as well as that of receiving.  Expecting nothing from the deaf-blind person is an insult.  If there are things you need from the friendship, do not be afraid to ask, take time, talk it over.  Respect the deaf-blind person as a person and treat him accordingly. Let common sense and kindness guide you.  Be observant and thoughtful, then let your humanity do the rest.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The ideas and suggestions in this paper were compiled after much thought, reading and discussion.  For the earliest version of this paper, I would like to particularly thank Stephen Ehrlich and Jill Hanman, Michael Hughes, Christy Davis, Lee Hagmeir, and Bemic Taylor.  I would also like to acknowledge the large contribution of the book Glimpses Into a Hidden World by Frieda LePla.

The National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are deaf-Blind is funded through Cooperative Agreement No. H02:5U20001 by the U.S. Department of Education, OSERS, Special Education Programs.  Part of its mission is to disseminate information, such as contained herein.  However, the opinions or policies expressed within this document do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of Education or the National Information Clearinghouse on Children who are Deaf-Blind.

Video tapes authored by Theresa B. Smith on the subjects of interpreting for deaf-blind people, and an introduction to the deaf-blind community are available from Sign Media Inc.

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