Guidelines for Specific Types of Disabilities
Physical
§ Mobility aids are to be treated as extensions of someone’s body.
§ Do not touch someone’s wheelchair, crutches, walker, cane, or other mobility aid without permission
§ Talk face to face, positioning yourself at eye level when possible.
Hearing
§ Always speak to and face the individual, not an interpreter.
§ If writing, do not attempt to speak while writing. The individual cannot read lips and write/read at the same time
§ Ensure you have the attention of the individual you are addressing. Waving, lightly tapping on the shoulder, or other visual/tactile signals can get their attention
Vision
§ Introduce yourself, your role, and others in a group. Say hello and goodbye to let the individual know you are entering and exiting the conversation or area.
§ Speak in a normal tone of voice – do not shout.
§ You may offer mobility assistance. If the person accepts, best practice is to offer your elbow and allow the individual to direct you when assisting.
Speech
§ Relax and listen. Do not attempt to rush conversations or guess what someone is saying. Don’t attempt to finish their sentences
§ It’s okay to say “I don’t understand.” It’s okay to ask the person to repeat themselves.
§ Repeat your understanding when necessary.
§ Talk to someone with speech difficulties as you would anyone else. Speak in your regular tone of voice.
Developmental/Cognitive/Intellectual
§ Adults with disabilities should be treated as adults.
§ Do not assume someone’s abilities from looks alone. Many individuals with disabilities can read and write.
§ It can be helpful to have the person say back to you what they heard and understood.
§ Don’t defer to staff person or caregiver. Address the individual directly and allow them to speak for themselves
§ Some individuals may have more limited skills. They may have limited verbal skills or be non-verbal. They may not respond to your requests or questions. They may repeat words and phrases (including your body language or emotional reactions). Individuals may have difficulty expressing moods or pain. They may also seem to understand better than they do. You should still engage with the person, but also rely on caregiver for responses.
