This week marks Deafblind Awareness Week, an annual campaign that has been raising awareness of deafblindness since 1984.

The week commemorates the life and legacy of Helen Keller, who became deafblind in childhood and went on to become one of the world's most influential advocates for people with sight and hearing loss.

This year's theme, "SeeHearUs", encourages people to learn more about deafblindness, challenge misconceptions and better understand the experiences of those living with dual sensory loss.

What is deafblindness?

Deafblindness, sometimes known as dual sensory loss, dual sensory impairment or multisensory impairment, is a combination of sight and hearing loss that affects a person's ability to communicate, access information and navigate the world around them.

Many people assume deafblindness means total loss of both senses, but this is rare. Deafblindness exists on a spectrum, with individuals experiencing different levels of sight and hearing loss.

The impact of deafblindness varies from person to person. Factors such as the severity of sight and hearing loss, when the condition develops and whether there are other health conditions involved can all influence how someone experiences everyday life.

For many people with deafblindness, touch becomes an important way of communicating, accessing information and connecting with others.

Deafblindness in Scotland

Living with deafblindness can be challenging and, without the right support, can lead to social isolation, loneliness and reduced independence.

People with dual sensory loss often face barriers when accessing services because support is frequently designed around either sight loss or hearing loss rather than the combination of both. As a result, the unique needs of deafblind people can sometimes be overlooked.

A significant step forward came in June 2025, when the Scottish Government formally recognised deafblindness as a distinct disability following a successful cross-party campaign. This recognition acknowledges the unique challenges experienced by the deafblind community and the importance of providing appropriate care, support and accessibility.

Raising awareness and understanding

Deafblind Awareness Week is an opportunity to increase understanding of a condition that is often misunderstood.

By learning more about deafblindness and the experiences of people living with dual sensory loss, we can help create more inclusive communities and ensure that everyone can access the information, support and opportunities they need.

Five things to know about deafblindness

To mark Deafblind Awareness Week, Sight Scotland's Vision Rehabilitation Manager, Sandra Taylor, shares five important things everyone should know about deafblindness.

  1. Deafblindness can happen at any age: Some people are born with deafblindness, while others develop it later in life. A person may already have sight loss and then experience hearing loss, or vice versa. Age-related changes can also lead to dual sensory loss. Because deafblindness can develop gradually, people may not always recognise the impact it is having on their daily lives.
  2. Deafblindness is also known as dual sensory loss: People are considered deafblind when a combination of hearing and sight loss affects their ability to communicate, move around safely or access information. You may also hear the terms dual sensory impairment or multisensory impairment used to describe the condition.
  3. Most deafblind people retain some sight or hearing: Total deafblindness is uncommon. Many people continue to have some useful vision, hearing or both. However, even when some sight or hearing remains, the combined effect of losing both senses can significantly impact communication, independence and participation in everyday activities.
  4. Deafblindness can affect mental health and wellbeing: People with dual sensory loss can be at greater risk of social isolation, loneliness, anxiety and depression. For older adults in particular, losing access to conversations, activities and information can have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing. This is why practical support, social connections and emotional support are all important.
  5. Access to services can become more difficult: Deafblindness can affect many aspects of daily life, from reading information and attending appointments to travelling independently and staying connected with family and friends. Without accessible information and appropriate support, people can face barriers to healthcare, education, employment and community life. Ensuring that deafblind people can access the right services and resources is essential to maintaining independence and quality of life.

What support is available

To find out more about deafblindness and the support available through Sight Scotland, you can get in touch with our team by calling our Information Line on 0800 024 8973.