What purpose do haptics serve in communication for Deaf-Blind individuals?

Haptics play a crucial role in communication for Deaf-Blind individuals by delivering visual interpretations through gestures on the body. This method allows Deaf-Blind individuals to receive information about their environment, emotions, and social interactions through tactile sensations.

When a communicator uses haptic strategies, they often touch specific parts of the recipient's body to convey meaning, similar to how hearing individuals use vocal tone and visual cues. For example, a person might tap a Deaf-Blind individual's shoulder and use specific gestures on their hands or arms to express concepts or emotions, making information accessible in a way that compensates for the lack of audible or visual feedback.

This tactile communication is not only essential for conveying direct information but also helps foster social connections and a sense of presence in interpersonal encounters, which is vital for those who are Deaf-Blind.