Disability Etiquette - Part 1
Starting with this issue, the IEC newsletter will feature an article on “Disability Etiquette” from the United Spinal Association for the next 21 issues. These tips are designed to help you with an understanding of what to do and what not to do when in the company of a person with a disability.
The Basics
Ask before you help
Just because someone has a disability, don’t assume that person needs help. If the setting is accessible, people with disabilities can usually get around fine. Adults with disabilities want to be treated as independent people. Offer assistance only if the person appears to need it. An if the person does want help, ask how before you act.
Be sensitive about physical contact
Some people with disabilities depend on their arms for balance. Grabbing them - even if your intention is to assist - could knock them off balance. Avoid patting a person on the head or touching his wheelchair, scooter or cane. People with disabilities consider their equipment a part of their personal space.
Think before you speak
Always speak directly to the person with a disability, not to his companion, aide or sign language interpreter. Making small talk with a person who has a disability is great; just talk to him (sic) as you would with anyone else. Respect his privacy. If you ask about his disability, he may feel like you are treating him as a disability rather than simply a human being. However, many people with disabilities welcome the opportunity to educate the public about their disability. Like anytime, it’s important to phrase a question about the disability as a simple inquiry or concern rather than a rude mischaracterization.
Don’t make assumptions
People with disabilities are the best judge of what they can or cannot do. Don’t make decisions for them about participating in any activity. Depending on the situation, it could be a violation of the ADA to exclude people because of presumption about their limitations.
Respond graciously to requests
When people who have a disability ask for an accommodation at your business, it is not a complaint. It shows they feel comfortable enough in your establishment to ask for what they need. And if they get a positive response, they will probably come back again and tell their firends about the good service they received.
from Fall 2006 Newsletter
