Print on Palm (POP)

Print on Palm. Print on Palm is an alternative method for communication used by individuals who are DeafBlind. It is typically for short interactions with the non signing public. To use this method, you would print out the words on the palm of the DeafBlind individual’s hand with your forefinger.

All capital letters are used except for the letter “i”. One letter is written at a time in the center of the palm. A pause will let the individual know that you’ve finished the word. You can add question marks to indicate that you’re asking a question and you can swipe back and forth to let them know you’ve made a mistake and are starting over.

This method is often used for receptive communication with the public. For example, a DeafBlind person may use a pre-printed communication card to ask a cashier what the total cost of their purchase is. The communication card will explain that they can let them know by printing the amount on the palm of their hand. But, it can also be used as an expressive means of communication for the DeafBlind individual.

The DeafBlind person can write words on the palm of your hand as well. If pen and paper is available, they will probably write the note out. This has also been used in cases where the individual suddenly loses their vision and/or hearing in an accident or a surgery. We use this method to introduce a more effective method, such as sign language or braille.

There are some limitations to this method. First of all, it is not intended for long or complex discussions or interactions. It is not effective for people who are not familiar with the print alphabet. For example, a person who was born fully blind may have no experience with print. They probably rely on braille and/or voice output.

So this would not be a helpful method for them.

You also have to consider conditions that may cause problems with tactual discrimination.

This could include neuropathy, from either chemotherapy or diabetes, or other neurological disorders such as MS. And here’s a brief demonstration of a young woman communicating with a DeafBlind woman using Print on Palm. She is printing out: “Hi, do you need help?” on the palm of the woman’s hand. She prints one capital letter at a time. And notice how Maricar, the DeafBlind woman, places her hand on top of the young woman’s hand for additional information.

As the young woman writes out the word, Maricar lets her know that she understands by nodding. Then Maricar responds yes, she does need help, and gestures that it’s cold and she’s about to go to sleep. The young woman understands this means she wants a blanket, so she gives her the thumbs up and tells her one minute.

In this example, they were able to communicate very effectively without using any sign language.

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