Since Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, people who previously had limited or no access to public places now move with ease in the world of work. While these people have their problems with vision, hearing or movement, those who work with them are often confused about how to interact with sensitivity and understanding.
Here are some questions to keep in mind.
When it is necessary to mention the disability, language should emphasize the person first, disability second. Rather than referring to someone as an epileptic, say "person with epilepsy" or "John, who ...." epilepsy
Avoid words that have a negative tone. People who use wheelchairs are not "bound" or "limited" to their chairs. A person may have spastic muscles but should not be described as spastic.
Choose a language is simple. Instead of saying that a person is "crippled with arthritis," with MS, "ALS," he says, "John has epilepsy" or "Mary has MS. "
Use the following terms:
"Congenital disability" rather than "birth defect".
"Not disabled" rather than "normal" "healthy" or "able bodied".
"Condition" rather than "disease" or "defect".
"Blind" rather than "blind" unless a person is totally blind.
"Deaf" or "deaf" rather than "deaf."
"Little person" or "dwarf" rather than "nano".
Words or phrases like "victim," "lame", "unhappy", "stupid", "deaf", "ugly" and "pitiful" are offensive.
Ask people with disabilities if they need or want help before help groped. If they want assistance, ask for specific instructions on how you can help.
Look directly at people with disabilities when it comes, even if the person has an interpreter or companion present.
Do not assume a speech impairment indicates that a person has a hearing impairment or intellectual limitations.
Enable people with speech disabilities to finish their sentences. Do not speak for them or interrupt. Ask questions that allow a quick response or a nod. The other person always has the opportunity to answer longer.
Speak calmly, slowly and distinctly to a person who has a hearing problem or other difficulty understanding. Stand in front of the person and use gestures to aid communication.
When walking with someone who is visually impaired, allow the person to set the pace. If the person seeking or accepting the offer of help, do not grab his arm. It 's easier for him to hold on you.
Never start to push someone's wheelchair without first asking permission of the occupant.
Leaning on a wheelchair when talking to the person is reckless.
If you intend to have a long conversation with someone who uses a wheelchair, get a chair and sit at eye level with the person. You will both feel more comfortable.
Please note that persons with disabilities are just like everyone else, except for certain physical conditions. Treat them as the degree competent staff or colleagues who are.
(C) 2005, Lydia Ramsey. All rights reserved in all media.
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