Using terms like "hard of hearing" can:
Perpetuate stigma and negative stereotypes, emphasize limitations rather than capabilities, and create unnecessary distinctions between individuals.
Instead, let's use person-first language in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006):
Person who has hearing loss
Person with a hearing disability
Other impairments aren't described with similar language:
Mobility: Person who has a mobility impairment (not "hard of walking")
Cognitive: Person with a cognitive disability (not "hard of understanding")
Visual: Person who has a visual impairment (not "hard of seeing")
The United Nations Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD 2006) promotes equality and dignity through inclusive language.
UNCRPD Article 1: "...those with long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments that may hinder full participation in society."
Using UNCRPD-aligned language helps:
Reduce stigma
Promote accessibility
Ensure equal opportunities
So let's choose inclusive language!
What is an impairment?
"Impairment is a perceived or actual feature in the person’s body or functioning that may result in limitation or loss of activity or restricted participation of the person in society with a consequential difference of physiological and/or psychological experience of life. For example, the International Classification of Disease (ICD) could be utilised for purposes of defining physical, sensory, intellectual, psychosocial and neurological impairments." (SA White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2015)
What is disability?
"The UNCRPD does not attempt to define disability per se, but rather recognises disability as an evolving concept. Disability is imposed by society when a person with a physical, psychosocial, intellectual, neurological and/or
sensory impairment is denied access to full participation in all aspects of life, and when society fails to uphold the rights and specific needs of individuals with impairments."
Who are Persons with Disabilities?
"Persons with disabilities include those who have perceived and or actual physical, psychosocial, intellectual, neurological and/or sensory impairments which, as a result of various attitudinal, communication, physical and information barriers, are hindered in participating fully and effectively in society on an equal basis with others" (WPRPD 2015)
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