COVID-19
ASL Video Links and Other Resources
Oregon Deaf
and Hard of Hearing Services
During this pandemic, Deaf and hard
of hearing people may have more challenges than usual with:
- job loss or reduction in income
because of layoffs and closures
- basic communication, as many people’s
faces are covered with masks
- social isolation and mental/emotional
stress from staying at home
- stress from fear of exposure to
COVID-19, or getting COVID-19 and trying to communicate with health care
workers wearing PPE
Below you will find:
- Links to ASL videos about COVID-19
- Communication resources
- Emergency resources (e.g., food, housing)
- Mental health and resources for
emotional well-being
ASL videos about COVID-19
Communication resources
The ADA National Network, National Association for the Deaf, Hearing Loss Association of America, TDI, American Association of the Deaf-Blind, and Oregon Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services have suggestions for how to communicate in medical settings with people wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
If you need a mobile device and/or apps that may help you communicate by text-to-speech or Video Relay Interpreting (VRI), here are two resources:
ODHHS has developed a video (with ASL and open captions), with guidance for preparing a medical emergency “go bag” to have ready to take to the hospital. It includes information about items to include in your go bag. Here is a checklist.
Help with emergency resources
(for example, food or help with utilities)
Mental health and resources for
emotional well-being