Tip Sheet: How to Interact with People Who Have Disabilities

Close this page
to go back to the
previous window.

Avoid asking personal questions about someone’s disability. If you must ask, be sensitive and show respect. Do not probe, if the person declines to discuss it.
Be considerate of the extra time it might take for a person with a disability to do or say something.
Be polite and patient when offering assistance, and wait until your offer is accepted. Listen or ask for specific instructions.
When planning a meeting or other event, try to anticipate specific accommodations a person with a disability might needs. If a barrier cannot be avoided, let the person know ahead of time.
Be respectful of the rights of people with disabilities to use accessible parking spaces.

Refer to a person’s disability only when necessary and appropriate.
Use people first language – refer to the individual first, then to his or her disability. (It is better to say “the person with a disability,” rather than “the disabled person.”
The following terms should be avoided in a disability context, because they disempower people or have negative meanings: invalid, wheelchair-bound, defect, handicapped, able-bodied, victim, crippled, suffers from, and patient.
Avoid terms that imply that people with disabilities are overly courageous, brave, special, or superhuman.

A handshake is NOT a standard greeting for everyone. When in doubt, ask the person whether he or she would like to shake hands with you. A smile along with a spoken greeting is always appropriate.
Speak directly to the person with a disability, not just to the ones accompanying him or her.
Don’t mention the person’s disability, unless he or she talks about it or it is relevant to the conversation.
Treat adults as adults. Don’t patronize or talk down to people with disabilities.
Be patient and give your undivided attention, especially with someone who speaks slowly or with great effort.
Never pretend to understand what a person is saying. Ask the person to repeat or rephrase, or offer him or her a pen and paper.
It is okay to use common expressions like “see you soon” or “I’d better be running along.”
Relax. Anyone can make mistakes. Offer an apology if you forget some courtesy. Keep a sense of humor and a willingness to communicate.

Keep your communication simple. Rephrase comments or questions for better clarity.
Stay focused on the person as he or she responds to you.
Allow the person time to tell or show you what he or she wants.