What is Difference Between Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing?

• Deaf: Cannot hear at all or very little.

• Hard of Hearing: Can hear some sounds but has difficulty hearing clearly.

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Hard-of-Hearing refers to someone who can hear a little, while Deaf describes someone who can't hear much at all. These terms indicate different levels of hearing loss, helping us understand the extent of a person's hearing ability.

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Individuals who are hard of hearing can perceive some sounds with the help of hearing aids. They might have trouble hearing in noisy environments or understanding speech from a distance, but they can often communicate effectively using special listening devices or by speaking louder.

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Individuals who are deaf cannot hear and use alternative methods to communicate, such as sign language and writing. They do not respond to sounds, speech, or even hearing aids or other devices. Some deaf individuals can read lips and speak, although not all have this ability.

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Both Deaf and Hard of Hearing people encounter similar challenges in the hearing world, such as securing employment or facing discrimination.