NY Law Sounds Off On ‘Hearing Impaired’

New York recently joined other states in eliminating the term “hearing impaired” from its law books, deeming it offensive.

In doing so, The Empire State became the third state to remove the term from its books, following Utah and New Hampshire. At least 25 references to individuals with hearing loss were changed from “hearing impaired” to “deaf” or “hard of hearing.”

Why the change?

In New York, the term “hearing impaired” was once commonly used in laws and official documents to describe people with hearing loss. However, many people felt that this term was not respectful. 

They believed it focused too much on what they couldn’t do rather than what they could. Because of this, New York changed the language in their laws to use terms like “deaf” or “hard of hearing” instead. 

This change shows respect and recognizes the abilities and identity of people with hearing loss.

Lawmakers decided to adjust the terminology due to the negative connotation of “impaired.”

Merriam-Webster defines impaired as “being in an imperfect or weakened state or condition; diminished in function or ability.”

Senator Terrence Murphy (R-Yorktown, Westchester County) said the change will help remove the negative connotation. 

“Advocates and members of our community who are deaf or hard of hearing find the labeling of ‘hearing impaired’ to be offensive. … By using the correct terminology, New York State will now acknowledge and remove any stigma associated with the deaf.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How much hearing loss is considered deaf?

Hearing loss is measured in decibels (dB), which tells us how loud a sound has to be for someone to hear it. People considered “deaf” usually have a hearing loss of 90 decibels or more. This means they need sounds to be very loud to hear them, if they can hear them at all. For example, normal conversation is around 60 dB, so someone deaf might be unable to hear people talking, even if they speak loudly.

What is the difference between the deaf and the hearing impaired?

The terms “deaf” and “hearing impaired” describe people with trouble hearing, but they mean slightly different things.

“Deaf” usually refers to people with very little or no hearing. Many deaf people use sign language to communicate. 

“Hearing impaired” is a broader term that includes anyone with any degree of hearing loss, from mild to severe. It can mean people who are hard of hearing (they have some hearing loss but can still hear a little) or people who are completely deaf.

In short, “deaf” is a specific term for those with little to no hearing, while “hearing impaired” includes all levels of hearing loss.

Audiologists and Hearing Aids In NYC

Hearing loss should never hold you back from living a full and active life. With today’s advanced hearing aids and assistive devices, there are more ways than ever to stay connected and engaged. 

Don’t let hearing loss define you. 

Seek support, explore your options, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

If you need to see an audiologist or get fitted for hearing aids, we can help.

Audio Help Hearing Centers connect you to expert audiologists with years of experience. 

We carry a wide selection of hearing aids and hearing solutions in New York.

Audio Help has three New York City offices conveniently located in Manhattan (Chelsea Village, Columbus Circle, and Park Avenue) and additional offices in Scarsdale, NY (Westchester County) and Stamford, CT.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation!