Assessing the employment and independence of people who are deaf and low functioning

There is much variation in functional level among people who are deaf and low functioning. The present study focused on the work and independent living status of people who are deaf and have varying levels of low functioning. Each study participant attended a comprehensive rehabilitation facility. Information was collected through personal interviews. Not all interviewees were employed at the time of the interview, but the majority lived on their own. Those interviewees who worked were, on the whole, happy with their jobs. Workplace accommodations were virtually nonexistent, while home accommodations included television closed captioning, TTYs, and alarm clocks with visual or vibrating signals. Suggestions and guidelines are given on areas in which people who are deaf and low functioning may need services beyond job placement.