Is Hearing Loss a Disability in New Zealand?
Is Hearing Loss a Disability in New Zealand? Learn about the status of hearing loss as a disability in New Zealand and the support services available for individuals with hearing impairments.
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Hearing loss can affect individuals of all ages and significantly impact their everyday lives. In New Zealand, there are numerous support services and resources available for those with hearing impairments. But does hearing loss qualify as a disability in New Zealand? Let’s explore this topic further for a clearer understanding.
Hearing Loss in New Zealand
In New Zealand, around 880,350 people experience some degree of hearing loss, which represents about 18% of the population. This statistic highlights hearing loss as one of the most common sensory impairments in the country. Given the substantial number of people affected, it’s crucial to consider whether it is classified as a disability.
Is Hearing Loss Considered a Disability?
The New Zealand Disability Strategy defines disability as any physical, sensory, neurological, or psychiatric impairment that restricts a person’s ability to engage fully in society. This definition includes individuals with hearing loss, as it can greatly affect their communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Thus, hearing loss is acknowledged as a disability in New Zealand.
Support Services for Individuals with Hearing Loss
Individuals with hearing loss in New Zealand have access to a range of support services and accommodations to help them navigate daily life. These services may include:
- Hearing aids and assistive listening devices
- Sign language interpretation services
- Captioning services for television and movies
- Communication support for work and educational settings
- Accessible public spaces and facilities
By providing these support services, New Zealand aims to ensure that individuals with hearing loss can fully participate in society and access the same opportunities as everyone else.
Legal Protections for Individuals with Hearing Loss
In New Zealand, individuals with hearing loss are protected under the Human Rights Act 1993, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. This legislation ensures that individuals with hearing impairments are entitled to equal treatment in all areas of life, including employment, education, and accessing goods and services. Additionally, the New Zealand Sign Language Act 2006 recognizes New Zealand Sign Language as an official language, further supporting the rights of individuals with hearing impairments.
In conclusion, hearing loss is indeed considered a disability in New Zealand, and individuals with hearing impairments are entitled to various support services, accommodations, and legal protections. By recognizing and addressing the needs of individuals with hearing loss, New Zealand aims to create an inclusive and accessible society for all its citizens.