The top moments for deaf talent in 2020
December 28, 2020
Hearing Loss Resolutions for 2021
January 1, 2021Top 10 hearing loss stories that defined 2020
It’s been a year. After starting 2020 optimistically, we’ve all faced the hardships and uncertainties that continue to linger in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. From face masks to distance learning, we’ve learned to cope in these uncertain times with our hearing loss, while also celebrating little moments of joy.
As we wrap up the year, we look back at the Top 10 Hearing Loss Stories that defined 2020.
1. What to know about clear medical masks for lipreading
As the world dealt with coronavirus, masks became a hot commodity. But for people with hearing loss, we found that masks can pose a bigger a problem. Deaf and hard-of-hearing people often rely on lipreading, which can be a challenge behind a mask. Clear masks, or see-through masks, solve that issue.
2. Kelly Clarkson releases new ASL video for song ‘I Dare You’
The original American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, dropped a much-adored American Sign Language (ASL) version of her new single “I Dare You” on April 15th, National American Sign Language Day.
The video featured many famous faces can be spotted including deaf actress Millicent Simmonds and deaf model and activist, Nyle DiMarco.
3. Making online learning accessible for deaf students
As a result of COVID-19, schools closed and students are continued their studies online at home.We learned the difference ways to enhance online learning for deaf students, and provide tips and suggestions to ensure education continued seamlessly.
4. Using multiple remote microphones in the classroom
For parents, it can be difficult not knowing how their child is doing in the classroom. This listening simulation illustrated the noise barriers students can face in the classroom and allowed us listen to how different Roger microphone technology could bridge the understanding gap.
This eight-minute video to helped us frame out solutions for Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for students with hearing loss.
5. The impact of mild-moderate hearing loss is bigger than you may think
Imagine in every conversation, you can hear bits and pieces of what is being said, but not the entire thing. That’s what it’s like to live with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Kayla shares her experiences growing up with hearing loss, and how others in similar situations can find ways to thrive.
6. A parent’s guide to distance learning and hearing loss
Kids with hearing loss have a significantly harder time understanding speech in a noisy environment than their typical hearing peers. This can lead to difficulties with attention, listening fatigue, and even behavior issues.
We share 3 simple things that enhance learning at home.
7. Tips for communicating with the deaf community when wearing a face mask
Hearing loss and deafness affect millions of individuals worldwide every single day, posing a slew of communication challenges for many.
However, these challenges were increased greatly since the use of face masks per recommendations set forth the Center for Disease Control (CDC). While these masks are necessary in order to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, there have been many challenges with face masks for the deaf community as they attempt to communicate in a newly masked world.
This article breaks down the challenges and solutions.
8. Five deaf actors to watch on Netflix right now
We love seeing #DeafTalent on TV shows, movies and streaming services like Netflix. Deaf actors proved they belong in these roles, by showing up in various productions over the year. Netflix, especially, is known for creating widely unique shows with a more diverse cast than other platforms, according to the Huffington Post.
9. A guide to group video calling apps for hearing loss
Our world became increasingly virtual this year. This included moving social interactions from in-person to online. We break down the best group video calling apps for people with hearing loss.
10. American Girl releases first doll with hearing loss
The newest American Girl doll proved that girls with hearing loss can do anything. Joss Kendrick, American Girl’s Girl of the Year™ 2020, was the first deaf American girl doll. She wears a hearing aid.
Do you have any other memorable hearing loss stories of 2020? Let us know!
