Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer has proclaimed May as Speech and Hearing Awareness Month in Saskatchewan.
“I encourage everyone to take part in the early detection and prevention of communication disabilities, one of the fastest-growing disabilities worldwide,” Harpauer said. “This month also serves to remind us to become more aware of some of the challenges individuals who experience communication disabilities encounter.”
Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc. (SDHHS) have been providing services for people who are Deaf, Deafened and Hard of Hearing for more than 30 years. The primary mission of SDHHS is to promote a world without barriers for people who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing.
“Infant screening at birth is the best way to lessen the impact of deafness,” SDHHS Executive Director Nairn Gillies said. “Early detection and awareness about the benefits of sign language for families will improve language acquisition for children who are born Deaf. Children who are deaf, children with hearing loss, and children with other communication disabilities who learn language early have reduced frustration, improved education, and better connections to their families and friends.”
Some of the services SDHHS provide include Sign Language Interpreter and Computerized Notetaker Services, public education about the accommodations people living with these disabilities require, and a discount hearing aid battery program. The organization also provides information and access to technical aids and devices for persons who are deaf, deafened and hard of hearing.
