Communication guide support for Western Australians with deafblindness: a pilot project

Abstract

This study investigated the impact upon ten individuals with deafblindness who received six months support from a ‘communication guide’ who has undertaken specialised competency based training in deafblind issues, sighted guide and deafblind communication. Mixed methods were employed for data collection, with participants completing pre-post quantitative measures and a semi-structured interview at the conclusion of the intervention. The qualitative and quantitative data indicated an overall increase in the quality of life of participants following the intervention.