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Erica
Nov 72 min read

Why is there a need for communication facilitators?

The stark reality is that millions of individuals with hearing disabilities lack access to essential services and opportunities.


A glance at the statistics reveals a disturbing disparity…


When comparing the incidence of hearing loss by age group to the availability of hearing devices and rehabilitation services, a significant gap becomes apparent. Notably, the prevalence of hearing disability is likely higher due to the functional impact of mild hearing loss on individuals.


Most notable is that approximately 60% of moderate or higher-grade hearing loss is experienced by adults above the age of 60 years. People aged 60 or older represent a 9.2 percent share of the overall South African population. Did you know that 1 in 3 people over 60 and 2 in 3 over 70 experience hearing impairments?

The reality is that less than 25% of the older persons in South Africa are members of medical aid schemes or private health insurance.


Key Statistics, for example, in Western Cape Province show that:

  • 1,52 million citizens (20% of 7.6 million) experience some degree of hearing loss, of which 30% (456 000 individuals) are persons with hearing disabilities.

  • Of these 456 000 individuals with hearing disabilities, 364 800 (80%) are non-sign language users, and 91 200 (20%) use South African Sign Language (SASL).

  • The non-SASL users (364 800) are made up of 72 960 (20%) who use hearing aids and 291 840 (80%) who do not use any hearing device.


We have to close the information and communication gap as all persons with hearing disabilities are covered by law irrespective of their method of communication.


The FanieDreams movement has begun the identification of persons who are interested in acting as communication facilitators in their local communities.

The communications facilitators are trained in line with disability legislation.


Projected outcomes of this project are:

- Enhanced autonomy for older persons

- Reduced feelings of isolation and frustration

- Improved access to essential services

- Promoted social inclusion and confidence

 

Be part of this wonderful initiative - together we can empower older persons who have hearing loss!


The following training is also available for facilitators–

·        Disability Rights Awareness – 3 hours, CPD accredited

·        Disability Rights : Hearing Loss – 2 hours, non-accredited

  

 

Sources:

 


 




 

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