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CONAVIGATION

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WHAT IS A CoNavigator?

Specially trained, sighted guide for DeafBlind clients, relaying visual, aural, and environmental information in their preferred language and communication mode. 

(Formerly known as Support Service Provider)

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DeafBlind

CoNavigator

What are the roles of a CoNavigator?

  • Serve as a sighted guide

  • Provide visual and environmental information in the DeafBlind person's communication preference by describing who is in a room, the activity, people's moods; reading a menu in a restaurant, or locating food items in a grocery store

  • Escorting a person to or from a meeting room, or through a lunch line during a workshop

  • Provide support to DeafBlinds in their homes, at their place of employment, in their community, or elsewhere

  • Provide transportation or accompany the DeafBlind person on public transportation when they need transportation assistance

  • Access to community functions: reading the candidates' names on voting ballots, attending city or county meetings, or participating in recreational activities

What kind of tasks does a CoNavigator perform?

  • Relaying visual, aural, and environmental description and information

  • Driving a vehicle

  • Walking together

  • Touching landmarks and objects

  • Communicating with the DeafBlind to receive their feedback, input, and directions

What is a CoNavigator not?

CONAVIGATOR ≠ INTERPRETER

  • An Interpreter for medical, legal, business, or other formal settings

  • Making decisions for the DeafBlind person nor attempt to influence the person

  • Caretaker: providing personal care such as bathing or grooming

  • Running errands alone for a DeafBlind person

  • Teacher or Instructor

  • Living skills specialist

  • Taxi drivers

  • Helper

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