How is being deaf not a disability?

Some deaf people consider themselves disabled because of their inability to hear. Others feel that they are not disabled because deaf people who do not have additional disabilities, can function well with the help of modern technology, interpreters, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.

Does loss of hearing affect speech?

Hearing loss can affect speech in adults, but not in the way you might think. Adult hearing loss primarily affects speech perception rather than speech production. This means that adult hearing loss not just a sensory problem—there are also communication issues that are important to address.

Can I get disability for hearing loss in both ears?

Social Security grants disability for profound hearing loss in both ears. Social Security disability benefits are available for profound hearing loss or deafness, but not for moderate or mild hearing loss. The Social Security Administration (SSA) details how significant your hearing loss must be to qualify for SSDI or SSI disability benefits.

Does the SSA cover hearing loss and deafness?

This is an essential finding for the SSA to grant you disability benefits. Because hearing loss and deafness are ADA covered conditions, employers must accommodate workers with these disabilities whenever possible. Getting approved for SSD benefits can be complicated by ADA considerations.

Is deafness a disability under the ADA?

Hearing loss or deafness is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employers must therefore make reasonable accommodations for employees and qualified job applicants with these disability.

What are the Blue Book requirements for disability for hearing loss?

The Blue Book disability listing for hearing loss outlines these requirements: An average hearing threshold of 90 decibels or greater in the better ear, documented through air condition tests AND a hearing threshold in the better ear of 60 decibels or higher, documented through bone conduction tests.