â—Ź Focus on the person, not their disability
â—Ź Do not assume an individual needs assistance. Approach, Ask, Assist.
â—‹ Approach: if you suspect someone may need a hand, walk up, greet them and identify yourself.
â—‹ Ask: "Would you like some help?" The person will accept your offer or tell you if they don't require assistance.
â—‹ Assist: listen to the reply and assist as requested. Don't be offended if your assistance is not required.
â—Ź Talk directly to the individual, not the interpreter, companion or attendant.
â—Ź Be polite in greeting.
â—Ź Listen carefully, wait to reply until the individual is finished speaking.
â—Ź Be sensitive about physical contact and space. Never touch anyone or anything that belongs to them without asking first.
● Respect an individual’s privacy.
â—Ź Do not make a decision on behalf of a person with a disability regarding what they can/cannot do.
â—Ź Place yourself at eye level when speaking with an individual that uses a wheelchair for more than a minute or two.