Sensory impairments
At Living Support 4U we understand that the existence of sensory impairment is greater amongst people who have learning disability than in any other single group. This becomes a more difficult challenge in people with hearing loss and poor sight. It can lead to confusion, lack of special awareness and great caution.
At Living Support 4U we acknowledge the reality of this problem and ensure that both adults and young people have regular eye and hearing tests. We train our support staff to spot the signs of undiagnosed sight and hearing loss ensuring that early intervention and treatment is delivered.
At Living Support 4U we know when an individual’s needs are outside the scope our own services and have trusted specialists who will deliver the best results for the people we support. We work closely with them to ensure that all users of our services remain free of the stigma and practical difficulties that arise from sensory impairment.
People benefit from a stimulating environment and there is no reason to assume that a person with a learning disability sighted or otherwise, requires anything different. However, it is also possible for an environment to be over-stimulating – and therefore confusing and difficult to cope with – and this is taken into account.
Soft furnishings can help to reduce echoes, making it easier for the visually impaired person to reject background noise and focus on more interesting sounds. Contrasting colours and areas of dark and bright can help the person distinguish obstacles around the home.