- General Suggestions
• Treat people with disabilities with the same respect and consideration that you have for others.
• Don’t assume people with disabilities need your help.
• Make eye contact and speak directly to the person.
• Use normal language! It’s ok to invite a wheelchair user to go for a walk or to ask if a blind person “sees what you mean.”

- Cognitive/Intellectual Disabilities
When working with someone who has Mental Retardation/Autism/etc:
• Never assume a person is not listening if they don’t give you any feedback.
• Do not assume you have to explain everything in simple terms. Speak normally and then taper your language to best suit the situation.

- Physical Disabilities
When working with someone who uses a wheelchair:
• Try sitting or crouching down to the eye level of a person in a wheelchair.
• Do not lean or push on a person’s wheelchair unless you have their permission.
• Be aware of what is accessible.

- Sensory Disabilities
When working with someone who is deaf:
• Face the person when you speak to them so they can see your lips.
• Speak at a slightly slower rate than you normally would.
• Slightly increase the level of your voice.
• Communicate in writing, if necessary.

When working with someone who is blind:
• Be descriptive when you speak.
• Maintain a normal tone of voice. Many people who are blind can hear perfectly well.
• Offer to read written material when appropriate.
• If asked to guide someone who is blind, offer your arm instead of taking theirs.