Myths and Facts about

DeafnessBy Casie Hartwell

MythDeaf people cannot talk.

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FactSome deaf people can talk (I am hard of hearing and I can talk). Some can use words or long sentences. Others use speech for all communications with hearing people. Still others who do not speak at all, but prefer to communicate in writing or signs.

MythAll deaf people can read lips.

FactNot all deaf people are good lip readers. Some deaf people can communicate with hearing people only by writing or gestures.

Myth

Deaf people can hear and understand if you talk loudly.

FactTalking loudly usually doe not help deaf people understand what you are saying.