If you want to build your career as a healthcare professional, knowing how to talk to people is a must. Especially if you are dealing with people with disabilities, you must be careful of what you say. Talk to people with disabilities like anyone else, in general. What should you not say? People occasionally make a few basic mistakes (and assumptions) when conversing with someone with a disability.
As a general guideline, treat people with disabilities with the same consideration, respect, and attention that you would want to receive yourself. What should one not be saying? Here are eight things that you
need to be careful about before saying.
It’s okay to ask enquiries because it demonstrates your interest in learning more about someone. But it’s never appropriate to go too personal in a chat, especially if it’s your first meeting.
When you ask someone about their disability right away (for example, “were you born that way? “), you tell them that their impairment was the first thing you noticed about them.
How would you feel if someone you hardly knew asked you about your medical history? As you get to know someone more, you can ask about their condition. However, keep in mind that some people may be quite comfortable discussing their disability, while others may not be.
Many people assume that persons with disabilities cannot lead active, social, or exciting lives because it is such a hardship for them to even leave the house. This could not be more untrue for the majority of
disabled individuals!
The idea that persons with disabilities don’t belong in places like clubs is another issue in this situation. But why can’t a person with a disability go out with pals for drinks or dance? Absolutely nothing, as
far as we can imagine!
Again, this is a well-intentioned emotion that gets misinterpreted. The phrase “fixing” or “curing” a person’s impairment, first and foremost, implies that there is something wrong with them when there isn’t. Many people’s identities include having a disability; you shouldn’t consider it as a drawback either.
Additionally, the person you’re speaking with probably already has a strong network of medical pecialists at their disposal, so it’s better to defer to them when making recommendations.
Do you recall the time someone asked you if you knew their random acquaintance in Australia while you were travelling abroad? Of course, given the size of Australia’s population, it’s someone you’ve never
heard of. This is comparable to that, then. Since there is no exclusive group of people with disabilities, enquiring is not worthwhile.
What a double-edged compliment! The word “but” is where the real issue is. It implies that being gorgeous doesn’t “go” with having a disability and that you should instead be ugly or unsightly if you have a disability.
Obviously, this is absurd. People with disabilities can be incredibly attractive, whether their handicap is obvious or not.
This is a challenging question because everyone, disabled or not, could use a little assistance from time to time.
While you might wish to facilitate someone with a disability, it’s crucial to preserve their freedom and personal space. Offering assistance is an excellent strategy, but don’t make a big deal out of it (or be
offended if your offer is turned down). There is a significant distinction between lending a helping hand and taking charge.
People with disabilities are occasionally treated like children for unknown incorrect reasons. This is plainly not acceptable unless they REALLY ARE youngsters!
Never think someone who has a disability is less intelligent or responsible than you are. The overuse of phrases like “buddy” and “sweetie,” as well as hair-twirling and fist-bumping, can come across as patronising or downright embarrassing.
Once more, this is a well-intended remark that may come off as a little patronising. Okay, calling someone inspirational is acceptable if they have accomplished a remarkable feat, such as setting an ambitious goal and realising it.
Hold your mouth, though, if you’re only saying that because the person has a disability. In their perspective, they’re just going about their daily lives, which may include going to work, making dinner, and then watching The Bachelor! A fantastic existence, for sure, but probably not deeds they believe deserve recognition. It might make them feel inferior or uncomfortable.
CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability will help you to learn more about disability and improve your skill. Conquer your career in the healthcare industry with Arizona College. Contact us for more details.