22/11/2025
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AyA2YavTP/
10 important Do's and Don'ts when interacting with People with Disabilities.
We invite you to take a moment to learn how to engage with those of us living with disabilities in a respectful and considerate way. Your awareness can make a significant difference! Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
1. Speak Directly to Us: Always address us, not those accompanying us. It’s respectful and empowers us to be part of the conversation.
2. Ask Before Helping: Before jumping in to assist, please ask if we’d like help. If we decline, it’s nothing personal, many of us value our independence! If we say “yes” please ask how we would like help and follow our lead.
3. Communicate Normally: Please don’t raise your voice or slow down your speech (unless asked too). Talk to us normally not like you address children or pets. We are capable individuals and appreciate being treated as such.
4. Respect Our Space: Never touch us or our mobility aids without permission. These items are an extensions of us and can be vital for our independence and safety.
5. Accommodations are not favouritism. They provide the means so the person who needs it can thrive.
6. Understand Accessibility: Accessibility is more than just a parking spot, washroom or ramp. It varies for everyone, so please educate yourself on what accessibility truly means.
7. Avoid Patronizing Comments: Comments like “good job” or “you’re so amazing” these can come off as condescending. We appreciate acknowledgment of our abilities without the extra fluff.
8. Don’t Question Our Disabilities: Asking if someone is “really” blind or deaf is hurtful. Our disabilities are valid, and we navigate the world like you only we do it slightly different.
9. Say Hello and Goodbye: A simple greeting can brighten someones day! If you’re leaving and are talking with someone who is blind, please let us know, so we aren’t left talking to someone who’s not there.
10. Use Everyday Language: Feel free to use terms like “see” or “hear.” We all have different ways of experiencing the world, but that doesn’t mean we can’t relate to common expressions.
Your kindness and awareness can create a more inclusive environment for everyone. Let’s all strive to treat each other with respect and understanding!
💜 Thank you for being part of this important conversation! 💜
Diverse Abilities Programs Inc.m offers tailored disability awareness training for classrooms, businesses and communities. Visit our website to learn more DiverseAbilities.ca.
