Which term describes a hearing status such that the individual must depend on visual methods to communicate?

• A. Hard of Hearing
• B. Deaf
• C. Communication Aids and Services
• D. Hearing Impaired

Answer: (B)

When someone relies on visual methods as their primary way to communicate, the term Deaf best fits. This describes a hearing status where spoken language isn’t the main mode of communication, so sign language, lip-reading, and other visual cues become essential. It reflects both the linguistic reality and, for many, the cultural use of sign language as the primary means of interaction. The other terms describe degrees of residual hearing or supports rather than a communication mode. Hard of hearing or hearing impaired usually refers to individuals with some usable hearing who may rely on amplification or spoken language, and communication aids and services are accommodations, not a status. So Deaf precisely captures the scenario of depending on visual communication.