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Inclusive Communication Strategies

Inclusive communication refers to communicating with individuals who have disabilities. Effective inclusive communication involves understanding the different aspects of communication and knowing what communication strategies to use for different disabilities. First, you must realize communication includes more than just your words. Facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice and cadence all affect communication. Communication strategies to use in inclusive communication will depend on an individual’s impairment.

  1. Hearing Impairment Strategies

    • Individuals with hearing impairments can communicate in several different ways, including sign language, lip reading and writing notes. Pacific Lutheran University recommends asking the individual which method of communication she prefers. If using a translator for sign language, make sure to make eye contact with the person you’re communicating with, not the translator. Also, be considerate that the translator may sign slower than you speak in order not to rush communication. When the hearing impaired lip reads, avoid blocking your mouth with your hands or other objects, and don’t chew gum.

    Speech Impairment Strategies

    • Individuals with speech impairments may find the communication process frustrating. Through patience you can help reduce this frustration. Pacific Lutheran University advises to give others plenty of time to speak and to use reflective listening to make sure you understand what the other person said. Reflective listening involves stating back what the other person said in your response. For instance, if someone says “I didn’t like the movie because the characters lacked depth,” you could respond, “So, you thought the characters could have been developed more?”

    Individuals with Assistive Technology

    • The Pacific Lutheran University notes assistive technology, such as canes and wheelchairs, should be viewed as extensions of the people using them. In regard to communication, this means don’t touch a person’s assistive device unless you mean to touch the person. After all, you wouldn’t randomly touch another able-bodied individual while communicating to him. The Pacific Lutheran University also recommends avoiding phrases like “confined to a wheelchair” and “walker restricted,” as these mobility devices should not be viewed as confinements and restrictions. Rather, assistive technology enables the disabled to do more.

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