2026 National AccessAbility Week – Tip #2 – Assisting People with Physical Disabilities

Did you know that hearing loss can affect a person’s ability to distinguish certain frequencies, sounds, or words—and, like many disabilities, it varies widely in degree?

Tips to support people who are deaf or hard of hearing:

• Get their attention before speaking. A gentle tap on the shoulder or a small wave works well.
• Make sure you’re in good lighting and keep your hands or objects away from your face so your mouth is visible.
• If someone uses a hearing aid, try to speak in a quiet area with minimal background noise.

Tips for businesses:

• Keep pen and paper available at customer service counters as an easy alternative communication method.
• Speak directly to the customer, not to their sign language interpreter, when one is present.

Join us in raising awareness for equal access and full participation for individuals with disabilities. Let’s celebrate the achievements of those who overcome barriers every day.

Visit our Accessibility page for more information.