The Pennsylvania General Assembly recently proclaimed April 8 as Disability Awareness Day. In part, it states “persons with disabilities contribute to the economic, educational and social growth of this commonwealth.”

The National Organization on Disability reports that more than 54 million Americans have a disability. You probably have a relative, friend, or neighbor with one. Perhaps you have a disability that is invisible to others.

The Americans with Disabilities Act has been a catalyst for progress. Government buildings and private businesses have become more architecturally accessible. Sign language interpreters enable communication between deaf and hearing people. Audio signals in new elevators announce each floor for people who are blind.

Yet it’s critical to recognize an interesting dichotomy. The public is seeing a stronger presence of people with disabilities participating in everyday activities, but apprehension is still felt by many when it comes to interaction. Just ask the attorney in the airport. These barriers can be eliminated through education and basic disability etiquette.

Communication is key. It may seem overly simplistic to say that you should speak directly to another individual. Frequently, just the opposite occurs when conducting a dialogue with people with disabilities. It can be easily remedied. If a person is a wheelchair user, direct statements or questions to him or her, not to their companion. Similarly, look at and speak to a person who is deaf, rather than the sign language interpreter. Have patience when interacting with someone with a speech difficulty. Do not nod in agreement or pretend to understand something if you don’t. Simply acknowledge you did not understand, and they will repeat the statement.

Many etiquette tips apply to people with specific disabilities. When engaging in a conversation with a wheelchair user for an extended length of time, make yourself and the person more comfortable. Sit at his or her level to maintain eye contact. Wheelchairs are part of a user’s personal space, not equipment. Refrain from placing coats over the back of one, unless the occupant gives you permission.

Some people use canes or crutches for mobility. Some lean on a door for support as they open it. Pushing it from behind may cause them to fall. The best course of action is to ask if they need assistance.

I sat with a person who is blind at a conference dinner several years ago. He asked the person seated by him where the salad dressing was.

The man pointed at the table, answering “Right there, by the centerpiece.” The reply was “Really? Where’s the centerpiece?”

The majority of people who are blind are able to navigate with little or no assistance. However, we all need a little help at some point, and there are some general principles that will make interactions occur more smoothly. The man, while trying to be helpful, should have provided directions to reach the dressing. It’s most effective to direct by specifying locations based on a clock, such as noon, one o’clock, etc.

Identify yourself before making physical contact, especially if the person is alone. If you have a conversation and then leave, let them know.

Many people who are blind use their arms for balance. When walking, offer your arm — don’t take theirs, if they request to be guided. Describe the setting while walking. Specifically point out any obstacles such as stairs, large cracks in sidewalks, and protruding objects.

The public should not feel intimidated when having contact with people who are deaf. There are ways to help facilitate communication on a one-on-one basis.

Tap a person who is deaf on the shoulder to get their attention. You can also flick a light on and off. A qualified sign language interpreter must be present when an exchange of information is complex, such as a doctor’s appointment. Ordering in a restaurant and other simple transactions can be accomplished through writing.

The message is universal, regardless of disability. We should never get to the point where we abandon common courtesy and refuse to offer help. Feel free to assist someone who appears to need it.

Just ask. And keep the change.

By Keith Williams
http://www.scrantontimes.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=16444744&BRD=2185&PAG=461&dept_id=418218&rfi=6