Communication Guidelines on Disability

Use People-First Language

People with disabilities prefer to be seen for their individuality, not their disability. For example, instead of using the term “the disabled,” it is better to say "people with disabilities." The stress is on people’s humanity, not their disability. Also, be specific when referring to a person’s disability. For example, use “a person with cerebral palsy” or “a person who uses a wheelchair” versus “physically challenged” or “handicapped.” In addition, the terms "handicapped", “physically challenged” and "differently abled" are discouraged; they are no longer used or accepted by the disability community. For example, "handicapped" derives from "cap-in-hand," a beggar's stance. People with disabilities do not wish to be compared to beggars.

Ask Respectful Questions About a Person's Disability

It isn’t rude to be curious or ask questions about a person’s disability, as long as the questions are asked in a courteous and respectful way. It is also acceptable to politely ask people with speech impairments to repeat themselves if you have not understood them correctly at first. Education, information and interpersonal relationship-building are the best ways to counteract stereotypes and negative attitudes about people with disabilities.

Ask Before Helping

Many people with disabilities lead independent lives; therefore ask people if they would like assistance before helping them. If they accept your assistance, ask how they would prefer to be helped before you act. People with a visual disability need their arms for balance, so it is best to offer your arm or elbow to lead or for support if the person requests to be guided.

Be Respectful of Personal Space and Assertive Devices

Assistive devices, such as guide dogs, wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids, etc, are part of people’s personal space and an extension of their bodies. Do not lean on, push or help with any assistive device if not invited to do so. Similarly, never move a person’s assistive device (e.g. wheelchair, crutches, or other mobility aides) out of the user’s reach. Bear the following in mind:

• Some people with disabilities rely on the dominant parts of their body, so shaking or grabbing a person’s hands, arms or artificial limbs could be unsafe, or could throw the person off balance. Always if it is acceptable to shake hands, and offer physical assistance before acting.
  
  
• People with visual disability or blindness who use guide dogs rely on their guide dogs to be alert. You should not pet or distract a guide dog and youshould always walk on the side opposite to where the guide dog walks, so you do not become an obstacle.

Always Talk Directly to a Person with a Disability

People with disabilities are people, and they should be treated with respect. Even in the presence of a sign language interpreter or special aide, always speak directly to a person with a disability Speak in a normal tone to people who use hearing aids; those devises are set to standard voice levels. In the case of a person with a visual disability, always introduce yourself first before asking to make any form of physical contact. When you are in a large group, always have others introduce themselves that way.

Consider Accessibility

Be aware of the physical space around you and check for its accessibility for people with physical and/or visual disabilities. Ensure that all items, facilities and tools for safety are within reach of people with disabilities. When directing people with a visual disability to the nearest exit, give instructions based on where they are physically located in a room if they are in an unfamiliar environment. Also, mention any obstructions that may be in their path.

Promote Equitable Conditions for People with Disabilities

Ensure that all conditions and environments are made accessible to people with disabilities, according to legislation on the rights of persons with disabilities (e.g. Americans With Disabilities Act, Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, Federal Family and Medical Leave Act).

Sources:

• Adele Schwartz, Ed.D., Marymount Manhattan College, “Educational Inclusion Course Materials”, 1999.
• Americans With Disabilities Act Language Guide
• Center for Disability Information and Referral
• Cohen, Judy, Disability Etiquette: Tips on Interacting With People With Disabilities, United Spinal Association, 2003.

© 2005 Anti-Defamation League