Get To Know Our
Person-First Language
Disability language is an important aspect of respectful and inclusive communication. We value each individual's personal identity preferences.
Let's View Some Examples
1. Instead of "handicapped" or "disabled," use "person with a disability" or "individual with a disability."
2. Instead of "wheelchair-bound" or "confined to a wheelchair," use "wheelchair user" or "person who uses a wheelchair."`
3. Instead of "mentally retarded" or "mentally handicapped," use "person with an intellectual disability" or "individual with cognitive challenges."
4. Instead of "victim of," use "person with" (e.g., "person with autism" instead of "autistic person").
5. Instead of "normal" or "abnormal," use "typical" or "atypical."
6. Instead of "suffering from," use "living with" or "has" (e.g., "person living with cerebral palsy").
7. Instead of "deaf and dumb" or "deaf-mute," use "deaf" or "hard of hearing."
8. Instead of "afflicted by," use "experiencing" or "has" (e.g., "person experiencing visual impairment" instead of "afflicted by blindness").
When asking individuals about their disability, it's important to be respectful and considerate. Here are some examples of how to ask:
1. "Can you tell me about your disability?"
2. "How does your disability affect you in your daily life?"
3. "Would you like to share any information about your disability?"
4. "Is there anything specific you'd like me to know about your
disability?"
5. "Can you tell me how I can best support you considering your
disability?"
It's crucial to use person-first language and to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for the individual's experiences and preferences.
