Disability Etiquette
People with Disabilities Are Real People
People with disabilities are individuals, not their conditions. They have hopes, challenges, strengths, and flaws, just like anyone. Approaching them as people first makes interactions more natural, because you can rely on the same basic respect and courtesy you use with anyone.
That said, you may still have questions about how to interact respectfully. This section provides general guidance on disability etiquette and practical tips for engaging with people with disabilities.
Learning Goals of This Section
To prepare for the disability etiquette portion of the exam, be sure you can:
Identify examples of bad disability etiquette.
Identify examples of good disability etiquette.
In This Section:
Talking About People with Disabilities
Talking to People with Disabilities
Helping People with Disabilities
Talking About People with Disabilities
a group of smiling young women, some of whom are wheelchair users.
Use “People First” Language
If a disability needs to be mentioned, always reference the person first, then the disability. For example, instead of saying “an epileptic,” say “a person with epilepsy” or “John, who has epilepsy.” The table below shows examples of appropriate and inappropriate language when referring to people with disabilities.
“People First” Language Examples Avoid/Inappropriate Use/Appropriate
The disabled, the handicapped People with disabilities
Crippled, physically handicapped, wheelchair-bound A person with a physical disability, or a wheelchair user
Disease or defect Condition
The Blind People who are blind, partially sighted, or have a visual disability
The Deaf, hearing impaired People who are deaf, hard of hearing
Note:
Not every region interprets person-first language the same way. In the United States, “person with a disability” is generally preferred, emphasizing the individual first. In the UK, “disabled person” is often used, with the focus placed on the word “person” as the most memorable part of the phrase.
Don’t worry too much about these regional differences. If you’re traveling or speaking with people from different regions, it’s good to be aware of them. Even if you don’t get the wording exactly right, showing respect for an individual in your conversation will generally be received as appropriate.
Identity-First Language
Some people with disabilities prefer identity-first language, which highlights the disability as an important part of who they are, for example, saying “autistic individual” instead of “person with autism.” If you’re unsure how someone prefers to be referred to, it’s always appropriate to ask.
Talking to People with Disabilities
Three friends with disabilities hanging out. One of them is listening to music.
Address the Person Directly
If a person with a disability has a companion or interpreter, speak directly to the individual, not their companion. For people who use wheelchairs, consider sitting in a chair or standing slightly back during longer conversations. This makes it easier for the person to maintain eye contact comfortably. The table below offers additional tips for interacting respectfully with people with disabilities.
Addressing People with Disabilities Avoid/Inappropriate Use/Appropriate
Raising your voice or speaking as if to a child Speak in your usual tone and rhythm
Interrupting someone with a speech disability or finishing their sentences Listen patiently and ask for clarification if needed
Covering your mouth when communicating with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing Ensure your face is fully visible to support lip-reading or visual cues
Playing “guess who” games with someone who is blind or has low vision Introduce yourself by name and identify yourself clearly
Speaking to a friend or support person instead of the individual with a disability Speak directly to the person with the disability
Phrases That May Sound Related to a Disability, but Aren’t Offensive
Common expressions like “see you later” can be used freely with people who are blind, or other phrases that might seem related to a disability. People with disabilities understand that these are just everyday expressions and not meant literally.
Helping People with Disabilities
Two women chat happily at an outdoor cafe; one uses a wheelchair, the other holds a tablet, sharing a warm, friendly moment together.
Don’t Assume Someone Needs Help
If you’re unsure, ask the person first. Don’t offer or provide assistance without permission. If the offer is declined, respect their choice. Sometimes they want to complete a task independently or try something new. Helping without consent can startle or unbalance the person.
Offer Help When It’s Clearly Needed
If it’s obvious that someone needs assistance, such as a person who is blind dropping an item, then offer help. Don’t ignore the situation, and don’t let fear of offending prevent you from being helpful.
A Simple “Hello” Goes a Long Way
A friendly greeting is always appropriate. Saying “hello” or asking a neutral question acknowledges the person’s presence without assuming they need help. If they don’t respond with a request for assistance, simply enjoy the interaction.
Service Animals
A service dog lays patiently on the ground next to its owner, who is a wheelchair user
Service animals, like guide dogs, are working when assisting their owners. Do not pet, play with, feed, or distract them while they’re on duty. Interrupting a service animal can make it harder for the owner to stay safe and navigate, sometimes creating dangerous situations.
If the service animal is off duty, the owner may allow interaction, but always ask permission first. Never approach or touch the animal without the owner’s consent.
Interesting trivia: While most service animals are dogs, other animals, like miniature horses and pot-bellied pigs, can also be trained to perform similar tasks.
Assistive Technologies
Respect Personal Space
When you’re with someone who uses assistive devices like a wheelchair or cane, do not touch their device. These tools are part of their personal space. Never lean on, move, or pick up an assistive device without permission.
Everyone Is Different
When in Doubt, Ask About Preferences
The guidelines outlined here reflect generally accepted etiquette, but preferences vary from person to person. For example, some individuals may find certain terms inappropriate, while others may not. If you’re unsure about the language someone prefers, it’s OK to ask. When they share their preference, make an effort to use it.