The Power of Language: Why Respectful Communication (and interaction) is Key for Individuals with Disabilities – Part 2

In last week’s article, I shared a brief history of the Disability Rights Movement, five steps for ensuring a respectful interaction, and some words that are no longer acceptable when referring to individuals with a disability.

We also discussed the need to avoid terms that connote pity, such as suffering from, victims of, and stricken with.

In this issue, I will touch upon some myths and realities related to individuals with disabilities and share specific strategies for working more effectively with wheelchair users, as well as deaf and blind individuals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to one in four adults in the United States (26% of the population) have some type of disability.

Carolyn Vash, a leading figure in psychosocial and psychospiritual aspects of disability, once said that

“Persons with disabilities are in a different situation, not necessarily a less fortunate one.”

In fact, people with disabilities often say the limitations of their disability are not nearly as devastating as the stereotypes, prejudices, and acts of exclusion they experience daily.

In the book, Managing Diversity, Norma Carr-Ruffino, sheds some light on some of the more common myths related to disabilities.

Myth 1: People with disabilities are unable to lead normal lives.

Reality: Most individuals with a disability can live relatively normal lives. Those who have a disability in one functional area are likely to compensate for it in a different way. This means they are able to do most things as well as anyone.

Myth 2: Persons with disabilities can only do menial or entry-level jobs, and most don’t want to work.

Reality: Persons with disabilities are successfully employed at almost all levels in nearly every field. Given that 90% of new job openings are in information and service occupations, most individuals with disabilities are capable of filling these jobs.

Myth 3: Employees with disabilities create safety risks, increase costs, and are less productive than other workers.

 Reality: Studies have shown that compared to other employees, persons with disabilities have better safety records, do not cause increased healthcare costs, have equal turnover and absentee rates, and are indeed productive. They have also been found to have better attendance records than non-disabled employees.

 How to Offer Help

 Disability advocates stress the need to consider specific situations when offering help to those with a disability. Keep reading for some tips when working with wheelchair users, as well as blind or def individuals

How to Offer Help to a Wheelchair User

•  Always ask the person if they need help before offering assistance. Keep in mind that they may prefer to do things on their own, so it's important to respect their autonomy.
• Be specific in your offer of help. For example, instead of asking, "Can I help you?", ask, "Would you like me to hold the door for you?" This allows the person to accept or decline your offer based on their needs.
•  Be patient and allow the individual to move at their own pace. Rushing them may cause unnecessary stress and discomfort.
•  If you're planning an outing or event, make sure accessible options such as ramps, elevators, or reserved seating and parking are available.
•  Respect their personal space. In other words, don't touch the person's wheelchair or mobility aid without their permission, as these are extensions of their personal space.

How to Offer Help to a Blind Person

•  Before approaching a blind person, introduce yourself and let them know that you're there to help.
•  Ask the person if they need assistance before offering it. Some individuals may prefer to do things on their own or may not need any help.
•  If the person agrees to receive your help, offer your arm for them to hold onto as you guide them. This is called the "sighted guide" technique.
•  As you guide the person, describe the environment around you. Let them know when you're approaching steps or corners, for example, and give them information about the layout of the area.
•  Under no circumstance raise your voice when communicating with a person who is blind. This will be perceived as patronizing, and it will certainly be unhelpful. The person is blind, not deaf.
•  If the person is using a cane or guide dog, avoid touching those. These are important tools for their independence and mobility.

How to Communicate More Effectively with a Deaf Person

•  Speak clearly and slowly and use nonverbal signals to help convey your message (i.e., gestures, facial expressions). If the person is using a hearing aid or cochlear implant, make sure you are facing them and speaking directly to them.
•  Consider using written communication such as notes or text messages. This can help ensure that your message is received and understood. Visual aids such as pictures, diagrams, or videos also help convey your message.
• Avoid background noise. This can make it more difficult for them to hear you. Consider moving to a quieter area or using noise-canceling headphones.
•  Use a communication board or app. This will facilitate the communication process since it allows them to communicate using symbols or pictures.
•  Be patient and give the person time to communicate their message. Don't rush them or finish their sentences for them.

Overall, when working with individuals with a disability, remember to (1) be respectful and mindful of their individual needs and preferences, and (2) avoid making assumptions about their abilities or limitations.