Posted on Wed, Apr 07, 2010
By Jeremy Willinger / Part 1
Etiquette is the foundation of successful, personal interactions. But when engaged in these interactions, what happens when one party has a disability? In this scenario, there are special rules of etiquette that need to be followed to ensure a respectful and fruitful relationship. With one in five Americans having a disability of some sort, these rules are more relevant than ever.
The number one rule of etiquette when dealing with a person with a disability is that just because someone has a disability does not automatically mean they are in need of help. While the courtesy of holding a door for someone in a wheelchair probably goes without saying, the vast majority of adults with disabilities should be treated as independent individuals.
When addressing a person with a disability, avoid words like “handicapped,” “retarded,” or “crippled.” More so, it is insensitive and hurtful to say “disabled people” as opposed to “persons with a disability.” If the person with a disability has an aide or helper, do not address them when speaking (as if they served as interpreter!) — focus your attention and speech on the person with a disability, and do not ask about the disability itself.
If they ask for your assistance, offer it graciously and without undue fuss or argument. It takes courage to ask for help and is a sign of harmonious etiquette to respond in kind. Try not to finish their sentences if they are slow in speaking, as patience is a sign of proper etiquette and shows respect toward the speaker. If you are having a hard time understanding their words, asking them to repeat their statements is not in bad form.
To be continued.