Abstract: Students with sensory impairments comprise a heterogeneous group
that is often underserved by rehabilitation and other social services. This
underserved status has been attributed to poor interagency collaboration and
eligibility issues, the low incidence nature of these disabilities, and the
shortage of trained professionals to address the specialized needs of these
individuals. This article examines important educational and vocational
characteristics of this population to assist rehabilitation professionals in
supporting more effective transitions into employment and other adult roles.
Specific transition considerations include unique learning challenges,
assessment issues, assistive technology, and accommodations. The article
concludes with strategies for transition planning, community integration, and
evaluating transition outcomes.
Keywords: sensory impairments, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, visual impairment, deaf-blind, transition
