Environments

Be sensitive about the setting in which you’re communicating.  A noisy or dark environment, or many people talking at the same time, may make it difficult for people with vision, speech, hearing, or some other hidden disabilities to fully participate in a conversation.  Be aware of clear paths of travel for people who are blind or use wheelchairs or other mobility aids.  Realize that a person with chemical sensitivity may have a reaction to smoke, perfume, or toxins in the environment.

Socializing

Don’t leave persons with disabilities out of a conversation or activity because you feel uncomfortable or fear that they’ll feel uncomfortable.  Include them as you would anyone else.  They know what they can do and what they want to do.  Let it be their decision whether  to participate. 

Touching

You may gently touch people with disabilities to get their attention.  Touch them when appropriate, such as when shaking hands in greeting or if they request your assistance.  If you meet people with AIDS, shake their hands as you would with anyone else; you can’t get AIDS by touching.

Don’t touch someone’s cane, wheelchair, or other assistive device.  It’s a part of that person’s personal space.  If you’re interested in a demonstration of someone’s electronic aid, ask.  Don’t try to use such equipment unless invited to do so.  Guide dogs and other service animals are working animals; don’t pet or touch them without specific permission.

Persons with Mobility Disabilities

A person in a wheelchair is a “wheelchair user” or a “person using a wheelchair.”  Talk directly to the person, not to an aide, and don’t assume a companion is an aide.  When having an extended conversation with someone in a wheelchair or scooter, try sitting or crouching down to his or her approximate height.  It’s okay to invite a person in a wheelchair to “go for a walk.”  Never touch or lean on a person’s wheelchair unless you have permission - it’s that person’s personal space.