Individuals who are deaf and blind

An individual can qualify for the higher rate mobility component if they meet all of the following criteria (Scottish Adult DLA regs, reg. 8(7))

• they have 100% loss of vision
• they have 80% hearing loss, (where 100% represents complete deafness)
• the combined effect means that the individual is unable to walk outdoors without the help of another person.

In considering the effects of hearing loss, case managers should consider if the individual either:

• uses an artificial aid to help them hear
• could reasonably use an aid to help them hear.

Whether an aid is reasonable to use will depend on:

• the availability of such an aid from NHS Scotland
• any discomfort the individual may experience from using an aid
• whether the aid can be used only for a short period of time or not.

The case manager should consider consulting a practitioner for further advice if there is no supporting information available.