New Video Series Aims to Raise Awareness for the Deafblind Community

New Initiative to Promote Deafblind Awareness

The Tokyo Deafblind Association (TDA), a certified nonprofit organization located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is set to launch an engaging video series aimed at enhancing understanding and support for individuals with both visual and auditory disabilities, particularly among the younger generation. Starting January 7, 2026, the association will progressively release a total of 37 videos—26 landscape videos and 11 portrait short clips—across various platforms, including its official YouTube channel and TikTok account.

This innovative video series comes as part of the Deafblind Understanding and Awareness Program, which is funded by the Japan Welfare and Medical Service Agency (WAM). The primary target audience consists of individuals in their teens and twenties who may be encountering deafblindness for the first time.

Highlights of the Video Series

Landscape Videos

The landscape videos will cover fundamental topics such as:

- What is Deafblindness?
- Communication Methods for Deafblind Individuals
- Basic Considerations When Interacting with Deafblind People

These videos will provide a comprehensive overview of deafblindness, showcasing various communication techniques, including voice, sign language, handwritten text, tactile sign language, and finger braille. To facilitate understanding, these techniques will be visually represented, illustrating the differences in perception for both sight and hearing.

Additionally, the series will shed light on the roles of interpreters and caregivers, offering insights into training workshops for these vital support roles. The structure is designed to help younger viewers envision themselves as future supporters of the deafblind community.