How to Act natural Around People Who Have Disabilities

People can act differently when they're put into situations they're not used to. This can make others feel uncomfortable as you may unintentionally insult them. What's important is that you're always yourself regardless of the situation. Here is how to act natural around people who have disabilities.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk as you normally would when hanging around people who have disabilities. Many people over-think when they're talking to those with disabilities. This happens because the person doesn't want to say a “wrong” word. Fact is that when you're overly cautious in a situation such as this, you're more likely to either sound awkward or insult the person with the disability.

• 2

  Avoid staring at the disability. Constantly looking at somebody's legs when that person is in a wheelchair, for example, isn't just rude. It's very noticeable no matter how much you think it isn't. Keep eye contact with the person when you're speaking with them.

• 3

  Only ask the person about his disability if you know that it's a comfortable topic to bring up. You'll only be able to tell this after having a conversation with the person. It's never a good idea to say “how did that happen to you?” upon meeting the person for the first time.

• 4

  Don't tell stories about people you know who have disabilities. Unless you yourself have a disability, you have no idea what a person who does goes through every day. Bringing up somebody who does have a disability doesn't do anybody any good. In fact, it will most likely make you look like an idiot in front of the person with the disability.

• 5

  Only assist a person with a disability if he or she asks for help or if it's apparent that the person needs help. You may think that you're doing the right thing by helping a person with a disability. However, you may actually be insulting that person as he's probably gotten used to doing things by himself. If you do feel compelled to help and the person hasn't asked, gently offer to lend a hand.