Entrevista com os surdocegos Cláudia Sofia e Carlos Jorge

Summary

The interview features Davi Henrique from Imprensa Jin Azanha, discussing communication strategies and challenges with Claudia, Sofia, and Carlos Jorge, who are deaf-blind. They share their personal experiences, including various communication methods such as tactile sign language, lip reading, and Braille. They highlight the importance of assistive technologies like Braille displays and voice synthesizers, which help them stay informed and connected. The conversation emphasizes the need for societal inclusion, preparation for disabilities, and the value of guide interpreters. They also share their hobbies and accomplishments, showcasing the ability to lead fulfilling lives despite their disabilities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Claudia emphasizes that communication strategies for deaf-blind individuals can include tactile sign language, lip reading, and Braille, depending on the person’s needs.
• 😀 Carlos Jorge shares that he has adapted to tactile sign language and Braille as his vision deteriorated over the years, highlighting the importance of these methods for communication.
• 😀 Both Claudia and Carlos Jorge use assistive technologies, including smartphones with voice synthesizers and Braille lines, to help them stay informed and connected.
• 😀 Claudia explains that her communication is not limited to any single method; she uses a combination of tactile sign language and lip reading to engage with others.
• 😀 Assistive devices, like the Braille line, enable deaf-blind individuals to access social media, WhatsApp, and read books, enhancing their ability to interact with the world.
• 😀 Claudia and Carlos Jorge emphasize the importance of society being prepared to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including having trained interpreters and guides for assistance.
• 😀 Claudia points out that societal awareness and training are crucial for ensuring that people with disabilities, including deaf-blind individuals, are included and treated equally in all environments.
• 😀 Technology plays a vital role in keeping people with disabilities informed about current events, news, and even entertainment, as shown by their use of smartphones and Braille devices.
• 😀 Claudia shares that she continues to stay informed through Braille reading, attending lectures, and participating in various groups related to disability rights and advocacy.
• 😀 Despite their disabilities, Claudia and Carlos Jorge live independently, with Claudia mentioning how they manage daily tasks and require external help only for communication-related challenges.
• 😀 Both Claudia and Carlos Jorge highlight that they do not see their disabilities as limitations and engage in various activities like sports, reading, and participating in public events.
• 😀 Claudia shares personal achievements, such as participating in parachute jumps, marathons, and even fashion shows, proving that people with disabilities can lead fulfilling lives just like anyone else.

Q & A

What are some of the communication strategies used by Claudia, Sofia, and Carlos Jorge?

Claudia, Sofia, and Carlos Jorge use various communication strategies such as Tadoma (a tactile method), sign language (Libras), and manual alphabet on the palm of the hand. They also use Braille and voice amplification for better communication with others.

How does Claudia communicate effectively despite being deaf and blind?

Claudia uses a combination of Tadoma (tactile reading of lips), lip-reading, and sign language (Libras) to communicate. She can understand others through touch and vibration, especially in her communication with her husband.

How has Carlos Jorge adapted his communication methods as his vision deteriorated?

Carlos Jorge initially used sign language (Libras) but, as his vision worsened, he began using tactile sign language (Libras Tátil) and Braille. He also uses a Braille machine and relies on Braille to read and write.

What assistive technologies do they use in their daily lives?

They use smartphones with voice synthesizers to access communication platforms like WhatsApp and social media. Additionally, they utilize Braille lines, which connect to computers or phones for reading messages, books, and other content. Claudia also uses Braille devices to read newspapers and watch TV.

How do they stay informed about news and events around them?

They stay informed through the use of voice synthesizers on their phones and Braille devices. They also rely on interpreters and guides who help them access information about politics, economy, and general news.

What role does inclusion play in their lives and how can others be more inclusive?

Inclusion is vital for them, and they emphasize the importance of society being prepared to receive people with disabilities. They stress the need for well-prepared teachers and students in schools and the importance of having interpreters and guides for effective communication.

What are some of the challenges they face in public spaces?

In public, the main challenge they face is communication. They rely on guides and interpreters who understand sign language or Braille, especially in situations where others may not be familiar with these methods. However, they are independent in many areas, such as mobility with the use of a cane.

How do they participate in social activities and hobbies?

They engage in various hobbies such as walking, doing sports like skydiving, biking, and participating in awareness walks. They also attend events like parades and participate in activities like swimming and rafting with the help of guides and interpreters.

How does the use of technology enhance their quality of life?

Technology plays a significant role in enhancing their independence. The use of Braille devices and voice synthesizers allows them to access important information, connect with others, and participate in various aspects of life, from reading books to engaging with social media and current events.

What message do they hope to share with others about living with deafblindness?

They aim to raise awareness about the capabilities of people with deafblindness. They want others to understand that, despite their challenges, they lead fulfilling, active lives and are capable of accomplishing many things, just like anyone else. They hope to inspire others to recognize the importance of inclusion and accessibility.