Emerging Communication Gap to the Lives of Differently Abled Individuals Working in a Blind Massage Service

Abstract

This study was conducted specifically for those blind and with impaired vision and to perform an analysis of the communication gap between the blind masseurs working in massage parlors that critically affects their being because of their disability and the specific limitations they encounter in their everyday life at work and including at home and in their respective communities. Communication can be difficult even with ordinarily-sighted people; it can be challenging for visually-impaired people. However, when both parties are aware of the barriers to communication, productive conversation between normally-sighted and visually-impaired people is still possible. People with visual impairments are already used to living without sight. Frequently, visually-impaired individuals are victims of discrimination, whether intentionally or accidentally. In Howard Giles’ Theory of Communication and Accommodation, he described convergence as how we adapt or alter our communication behavior to become more like someone. This happens when a person decides to fit in and become part of their conversation partners. Further, the purpose of this study was to reconnoiter the emerging problems encountered by differently-abled individuals working as massage therapists. The study utilized a single-case qualitative research method to obtain information regarding the problems faced by differently-abled individuals working in blind massage services. Based on the testimonies gathered from the informants, the blind reading literacy barrier was perceived as a communication challenge among the employees. Their disability in reading makes their emotions unstable, causing doubts or fear of trust and confidence when they are required to affix a thumbprint instead of their signature on whatever document they are given to them.