What's so Different about People with Disabilities?

People with disabilities come in all shapes and sizes. They have diverse personalities, abilities, interests, needs, and preferences --- just like everyone else in our society.

A disability is only one of a person's distinguishing features. In many cases, a person's disability is not even visible. Focusing on the disability, rather than on relating to the person, often confuses well-meaning people and creates discomfort or inappropriate behavior. What is different about people with disabilities is often a matter of minor details.

Interacting with People who have Visual Impairments

• Speak to the person when you approach so that person knows someone is there.
• Introduce yourself and speak in a normal tone of voice.
• Tell the person when you are leaving so he/she is not left talking to an empty space.
• Never touch or distract a service dog without asking the owner.
• Do not attempt to lead someone without first asking; allow the person to hold your arm and control her or his own movements. Walk at a normal pace; the person will follow about one-half step behind you.
• Be descriptive when giving directions; give information that is visually obvious to a sighted person.
• For example when approaching steps, mention how many there are and whether they go up or down.
• If you are offering a seat, describe where the chair is located (for example, "two steps to your right") or ask permission to guide the person's hand to the chair.
• Offer assistance if the person appears to be having difficulty finding a specific area.

Interacting with Deaf or Hard of Hearing People

• Converse in a quiet place with few distractions whenever feasible.
• Get the person's attention before starting a conversation (i.e., tap the individual on the shoulder or wave discretely).
• Identify yourself (write out your name).
• Look directly at the person so your mouth is visible; speak clearly but don't exaggerate your mouth movements.
• Use a normal tone of voice.
• If the person doesn't understand you, repeat.
• If the person still doesn't understand, rephrase.
• It is acceptable to write notes or share a computer and keyboard.
• If a deaf person uses a sign-language interpreter, speak directly to the individual, not to the Interpreter.
• When you telephone a deaf person, use your state's telecommunications relay service. The number is the same nationwide - 711.

Interacting with People who have Mobility Impairments

• Talk directly to the person, not to a third party.
• Sit down if possible when having an extended conversation so you can share eye level.
• Do not lean on a wheelchair or other assistive device; those things are considered part of the person's personal space.
• Do not assume the individual needs help or wants someone to push his/her wheelchair --- ask first.

Interacting with People who have Speech Impairments

• If you do not understand what the person said, don't pretend; ask the person to repeat.
• If you still don't understand a word, ask the person to write it out.
• Try to eliminate background noise or distractions.
• Be a patient listener.
• Don't interrupt or finish the speaker's sentences unless that person looks to you for help.
• Try to ask questions that require short answers or a nod of the head.
• Concentrate on what the person is saying, not on the difficulty you are having understanding.
• Discuss matters that are personal in a private room to avoid others overhearing.

REMEMBER

• Treat people who have disabilities with the same dignity, respect, and courtesy you show to others.
• Offer assistance but do not insist on helping.
• Ask the person for instructions on how to help.

For more information about issues of disability call Disability Services for Students at 777-3425 or see: