Ageism and deafness: a Danish good practice example

Many old deaf people live alone and isolated. The communication between old deaf people and their families is often characterized by being very unequal because of the low sign language level. The Danish Deaf Association wants to fight against loneliness and has therefore established a volunteer visiting service to old deaf people all-over the country.

Their volunteer service is a unique possibility where old deaf people in their own home receive a weekly visit from a volunteer visiting deaf friend. In sign language they can talk about everyday life or news from the local deaf association. They can also go for a walk or join the local deaf church service. The most important thing this is that their time together is cosy and nice – in sign language of course. The Danish Deaf Association coordinates the volunteers and pays all their travel expenses.

Read also:

‘For deaf seniors, it is essential to participate within the deaf community’

Access to sign language is a necessity for deaf seniors living in retirement homes!

Our thematic focus on ageism and disability