Maxim Poon Wong - Ways To Be More Inclusive Of People With Disabilities

1. Maxim Poon Wong - Ways To Be More Inclusive Of People With Disabilities

2. Maxim Poon Wong - In a recent report by the Institute on Disability (IOD) at the University of New Hampshire, almost 13 percent of Americans are living with disabilities. According to Maxim Poon Wong, disabilities can be obvious, or invisible—some may limit mobility, while others may interfere with communication, stamina, or cognitive abilities. All people indeed deserve respect and equality, regardless of their abilities or differences, and we have the power to make that happen. Here are some ways we can make that happen.

3. Use Appropriate Language It is well known that people with disabilities face stigma because many of the terms they are used to describe themselves are demeaning or disrespectful. By utilizing more inclusive language, this stigma can be combated and people with disabilities can feel respected and valued. Avoid terms like "handicapped" and "crippled". It is often best to simply refer to someone's disability as what it is. If someone wears a trach collar, call it a trach collar. If they have cerebral palsy, call it cerebral palsy.

4. Table of contents Obtain direct input from people with disabilities 02 Some of them may have their families, friends, interpreters, or caregivers with them. It is so easy to turn to the helpers and address them instead of the person. We may not even be aware that we are doing this, but it can demoralize and make a person feel invisible. Avoid weird facial reactions 03 Interacting with others and making faces can freeze, discourage, or make your interlocutor uncomfortable. Consider how you can express agreement or disagreement simply by continuing the conversation.

5. People with disabilities can complete a wide range of tasks. Don't assume they can't or need help with anything. According to Maxim Poon Wong, let people with disabilities manage from handshakes to holding doors.