Do not make assumptions about
what a person can and cannot do. A person with a physical disability is
the best judge of his/her own capabilities.
Do not push a person’s wheelchair
or grab the arm of someone walking with difficulty without first asking if
you can be of assistance. Personal space includes a person’s wheelchair,
crutches, or other mobility aid.
Don’t leave without saying
you’re leaving.
If you are offering directions
to a person who is blind, be as specific as possible and point out
obstacles in the path of travel. Use clock cues such as, “The door is at 2 o’clock.”
Alert people who are blind or
visually impaired about posted information.
Never pet or otherwise
distract a guide dog unless the owner has given you permission.
Cognitive Disabilities
When speaking to someone who
has a cognitive disability, try to be alert to their responses so that you
can adjust your method of communication if necessary.
People with brain injuries
may have short term memory deficits and may repeat themselves or require
information to be repeated.
People with auditory
perceptual problems may need to have directions repeated, and may take
notes to help them remember directions or the sequence of tasks.
People with perceptual or
“sensory overload” problems may become disoriented or confused if there is
too much to absorb at once. Provide information gradually and clearly.
Repeat information using
different wording or a different communication/speech approach if
necessary. Allow time for the information to be fully understood.
Some people who have a
cognitive disability may be easily distracted. Try not to think of this
distraction as rudeness.
Speech Disabilities
Talk to people with speech
disabilities as you would talk to anyone else.
Give the person your
undivided attention.
Ask short questions that
require brief answers or a head nod. However try not to insult the
person’s intelligence with oversimplification.