Relating tips: showing respect to people with disabilities

You may be a bit unsure about how to interact with people with disabilities. That’s ok. It is human nature to feel that way when meeting anyone who is different. Here are some tips to help overcome any uncomfortableness you may feel:

The most important thing is to realize people are more than their disabilities. This means realizing that people with disabilities-no matter what level of disability- have much to offer. They have dreams, talents, and goals. Everyone is created in the image of God. This means everyone has worth and deserves dignity.

Treating adults with disabilities as adults is key in showing respect and dignity.

Helping children with disabilities feel as special as other children is vital.

Offer assistance before assuming help is needed.

When addressing a person with a disability, please address that person and not his or her companion(s).

Be mindful of service animals. When they are in public, they are working and should not be disturbed.

When communicating with someone with a speech impairment, be patient and don’t assume he or she has a cognitive disability.

When meeting a person with a mental illness (such as bipolar), it does not have to be assumed that this person is violent or dangerous.

It is ok to use words such as “walk” and “see” when speaking with people with disabilities. For example, it is not offensive to tell a person who is blind, “I will see you later.”