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Is “Hearing Impaired” an offensive term?

If you are not sure about the term “Hearing Impaired”, if it's offensive or not, we made an article to help you out. Click here to learn more!

Author:
Colton Jannusch
Is “Hearing Impaired” an offensive term?

As languages, perceptions, and social norms evolve, it is becoming increasingly difficult for everyday people to figure out how to refer to people with disabilities. In this discussion, we would like to explain why the terms “hearing impaired” and “hearing impairment” are not suitable for use anymore.

When we focus on people who are prelingually deaf and hard of hearing, the word “impaired” is not an accurate description. A person becomes stigmatized because we reduce that person to someone who is subordinate to the majority and suggests that they need to be ‘fixed’. 

It is important to understand that many people do not consider being deaf or having hearing loss as a disability.

Why Is “Hearing Impaired” Considered Rude And Offensive?

Happy friends.
Happy friends.

We often think it is more polite to say “hearing impaired” than “deaf”, when it's really not the case today. We think this softens the blow of their harsh reality when really they live fulfilling, rich, meaningful lives as a part of the Deaf and hard of hearing community. 

It is important to note that deaf and hard of hearing people usually know that the person isn’t trying to be offensive or rude, they simply haven’t been educated. We know you are well-meaning! There is a lack of mainstream awareness regarding appropriate language and terminology which we hope this article helps with!

This term “hearing impaired” may have been once viewed as a politically correct version of the word “deaf”, but it is no longer acceptable. It is outdated and demeaning. It establishes the standard as “hearing”, and anything different is impaired or substandard.

Not only that, but it does not account for cultural identity. Many with hearing loss do consider themselves as a part of the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Culturally Deaf people do not like the term "hearing impaired", perceiving it as negative and clinical.

Negative Connotations Tied With “Hearing Impaired”

Using the phrase “hearing impaired” or “hearing impairment” is problematic and implies that someone with hearing loss is impaired or less able, rather than differently-abled. It suggests that they are weakened or damaged. Many disagree with the term “hearing impaired” because it is rooted in a deficiency mindset, pointing out what they cannot do. 

If you go to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary and type in the word “impaired”, the resulting definition states: “Being in an imperfect or weakened state or condition; diminished in function or ability.” Deaf and hard of hearing people would disagree with this definition. 

The World Federation of the Deaf has taken the stance that “hearing impaired” is no longer an acceptable term. The National Association of the Deaf is on record stating that “‘Hearing-impaired’ was a well-meaning term that is not accepted or used by many deaf and hard of hearing people.”

Origins of the term dumb

The term ‘dumb’ has several origins. In Gothic (dumbs) dumb referred to a person’s inability to speak, while in its Dutch (dom) and German (dumm) roots it referred to a lack of intelligence (i.e., stupid). 

Deaf people used to be labeled as “deaf and dumb” and/or “deaf mute”, meaning while deaf, they did not have the ability to speak. This is a misconception as many deaf people have the ability to speak or to communicate, to differing degrees. They have functioning vocal cords just like hearing people. 

It is inappropriate to use the above terms today even if it was once widely used in the 18th and 19th centuries.

People with speech and hearing disabilities are capable of expressing themselves in writing, through sign language, and in other ways. They are most certainly not “silent”! Additionally, a person who does not use speech may be able to hear.

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Hearing Impaired Legality Tidbits

One interesting fact is that journalists are taught to avoid using the terms “hearing impaired” or “partial” or “partially” in reference to deafness or hearing loss unless people use those terms for themselves.

Many states have actually begun to amend this particular terminology written in their laws. In 2017, Utah became the first U.S. state to change all hearing impaired references in their state laws. New Hampshire and New York followed suit.

What Is a Proper Way To Address a Deaf or Hard of Hearing Person

Man explains something through sign language.
Man explains something through sign language.

If you are unsure which term they prefer or have doubts, you can always ask the person. They will share with you their preference regarding the terms “hard of hearing”, “deaf”, or “Deaf”. Your family, co-workers, or friends with hearing loss would certainly appreciate this! 

Be sensitive when using the word “impairment” to describe the nature of a disability, or in this case, hearing loss. Again, it is strongly recommended that you avoid using the term “hearing impaired” when discussing or referring to the Deaf community.

Stay tuned for upcoming articles where we explore further terminology that is used in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you call a deaf person? 

The short answer: deaf.

Deaf and hard of hearing are the two most widely accepted terms for someone with hearing loss because they're considered to be more positive than the term "hearing impaired" or "hearing disabled", which implies a deficit or that something is wrong that makes a person less than whole. These terms are considered offensive and should not be used.

What’s the difference between deaf and Deaf? 

The ‘uppercase D’ Deaf describes people who identify as culturally Deaf and actively engage with the Deaf community. Most commonly, people who identify as Deaf are often born deaf and sometimes have other family members who are deaf. However, there are many people who may become part of the Deaf community later in life.

The ‘lowercase d’ deaf refers to the condition of hearing loss. People who identify as deaf with a lowercase ‘d’ don’t necessarily have a strong connection to the Deaf community and may communicate more frequently with speech. This can be the case for individuals who grew up in hearing households and had little to no exposure to the Deaf community.

Do All Deaf People Read Lips? 

This is a common misconception. Although some individuals can read lips, even the best speech reader only catches about 25% -30 % of what is said.

Why is The Term Hearing Impaired Offensive? 

Words and labels matter and can have a profound effect on people. Some terms can suggest inferiority simply because they are deaf or hard of hearing. Show your respect, appreciation and inclusive approach for deaf and hard of hearing people by refusing to use those outdated and offensive terms, and when in doubt, ask!

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Colton Jannusch

A passionate and dedicated English teacher who creates an inclusive and engaging learning environment, inspiring students to develop their language skills and cultivate a lifelong love for literature.

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Is “Hearing Impaired” an offensive term?

Key Findings

  • Workplace Impact: 62% of Deaf and 66% of Hard-of-Hearing individuals report that communication barriers hinder career mobility.
  • Healthcare Challenges: 62% of Deaf and 66% of Hard-of-Hearing individuals experience communication barriers in healthcare settings, contributing to delays in treatment.
  • Concerns About Emergency Communications: 20% of Deaf and 24.3% Hard-of-Hearing users also expressed serious concerns that communication barriers would prohibit them from contacting healthcare personnel in an emergency situation.
  • Independence Boost: Assistive technology nearly doubled rates of independence, with 60% of Deaf users and 63% of Hard-of-Hearing users reporting increased autonomy.
  • Emotional Strain: 55% of Deaf users and 83% of Hard-of-Hearing users reported emotional distress due to communication frustrations.
  • Social and Professional Opportunities: 46% of Deaf and 32.9% of Hard-of-Hearing users saw improved social and career prospects thanks to assistive technologies.

Empowering the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Through Technology: A New Era of Communication and Independence

At Nagish, we’ve seen firsthand just how much communication shapes daily life for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities. Our recent survey highlights the significant barriers they face in the workplace, healthcare settings, and in their social lives. But it also sheds light on a powerful solution: assistive technology. The results of this survey reinforce our commitment to empowering these communities and remind us why our mission matters: with access to the right tools, independence grows, opportunities expand, and well-being improves.

We collected data through a comprehensive survey involving over 300 individuals who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing and currently use hearing assistive technology. The survey included 179 Deaf and 140 Hard-of-Hearing participants, with data collected in an inclusive and accessible manner to ensure that everyone could participate and share their experiences without barriers.Communication Barriers in the Workplace: Limiting Career Mobility

Communication challenges in the workplace remain one of the most significant hurdles for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, preventing them from fully realizing their career potential. Assistive technology offers a solution by removing these barriers and expanding access to a broader range of job opportunities and career growth.

A majority of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing participants reported that communication barriers affected their career decisions, making it harder to pursue job opportunities or advance in their careers.

Deaf Participants

Hard-of-Hearing participants

65% of Deaf users rely on assistance from hearing individuals at least once a week to communicate effectively, which can limit their ability to fully engage in dynamic work environments.

Communication Barriers in Healthcare: A Matter of Public Safety
Communication challenges are not just a workplace issue — they extend into healthcare settings, where they can directly impact individuals’ health outcomes. Accessible communication tools are essential for ensuring that Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals can receive timely and accurate medical care, especially in emergency situations

Many Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users face communication barriers in healthcare settings, which can lead to missed appointments, misunderstandings about medical treatments, and delayed care.

Deaf users:

62%

Hard of Hearing users:

66%

Some Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users have concerns about reaching healthcare professionals in emergencies, highlighting serious public safety risks.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Empowering Independence Through Assistive Technology
One of the most encouraging findings from our survey is just how much independence is boosted with assistive technology. This improvement in independence is not just about doing things on their own; it’s about having the confidence and ability to engage fully in both professional and personal settings.

Assistive technology has significantly increased the independence of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users in managing daily tasks, showing clear improvements after adoption.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Expanding Social and Professional Opportunities
Beyond independence, assistive technology creates connection.By removing communication barriers that keep people from joining in socially or professionallyassistive technology allows users to engage more deeply in social activities and pursue career opportunities that were previously out of reach.

Assistive technology has helped Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users expand their social networks and professional opportunities, enabling new connections and career growth.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: The Hidden Toll of Communication Barriers
People often overlook the emotional and psychological toll of communication , but they can have a profound impact on the mental well-being of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals. Assistive technology can help alleviate this emotional strain, empowering users to communicate more effectively and reducing the anxiety associated with relying on others for basic communication.

A significant number of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users experience frustration and anxiety when communicating with family and friends, leading to isolation and stress.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Why This Matters: A Call for Widespread Adoption of Assistive Technologies
The findings from our survey are clear: communication barriers continue to limit the lives of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals in many areas, from the workplace to healthcare to their social lives. What’s also clear to us is that the question isn’t whether assistive technology helps—it’s how quickly we can make this powerful solution universally available.. By making these tools more accessible, we can open up new opportunities for individuals to thrive in their careers, maintain better health, and lead more independent lives.
At Nagish, we are committed to advocating for the integration of assistive technologies in all aspects of life. Whether it’s in healthcare, the workplace, or social settings, these technologies have the potential to create a more inclusive society where Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals can live fully empowered lives. 
Our hope is that these findings inspire not just awareness, but action. We hope this survey creates awareness and action in promoting accessibility and inclusion for these communities. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their hearing abilities, has equal access to opportunities and services.