Everyday Interaction

Etiquette for everyday interaction with a person with a disability

• The person with a disability is not necessarily more fragile or sensitive than other people.
• Ask the person for his or her preferred method for communication, for example, written or sign language.
• Look and talk directly to the person.
• Feel free to ask the person to repeat himself if you do not understand the first time.
• If you offer help, wait until the offer is accepted. Then listen or ask for instructions.
• There is no need to avoid or gloss over humorous situations as a result of a disability.
• Try to help a person with a visual impairment in becoming familiar with a new place.
• Ignore guide dogs or other service animals. Don’t pet them…they are working.
• Don’t worry about using common expressions such as “See ya later,” or “Gotta run.”
• When speaking with someone with mental retardation, use simple, but not childish language.
• Don’t pretend to understand if you don’t.
• When speaking with someone who uses a wheelchair, sit down or kneel to place yourself at their eye level.
• Don’t lean on the wheelchair.