Deafness refers to a significant hearing impairment or the complete inability to hear. It can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life). The degree of deafness can vary widely, and it is often categorized into different levels based on the extent of hearing loss.
Deafness can profoundly impact communication, language development, education, and overall quality of life. However, many individuals with deafness or hearing impairment use various methods to communicate, including sign language, lip-reading, and assistive devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants. With appropriate support and accommodations, many people with deafness lead fulfilling and successful lives.