Introduction
Do you know what to say when
someone with a disability asks you to use the correct terminology? Do you know
how to talk about their disability in general? If not, then this article is for
you.
What is Disability?
Disability is not just a medical condition or physical
impairment. It also involves social, cultural, and economic factors that affect
the ability of an individual to interact with others in society. Disability is
therefore not only about physical limitations but also about social barriers
created by ableism (discrimination against people with disabilities). This
means that when you talk about disability language there are different ways to
use the terminology depending on whether you're writing for an academic
audience or speaking directly with someone who knows nothing about this topic
at all!
How to use disability language:
People with disabilities are all around us. You may not know
it, but you probably use the term "disabled people" every day. But
this is wrong! You should be using words like "people with hearing
impairment," or even better yet: "hearing impaired."
Another common mistake is to use the word wheelchair user
instead of a paraplegic or quadriplegic person. How about someone who uses a
cane or crutch? Or perhaps someone who has multiple sclerosis? The correct
terminology for these individuals is clearly suggested by their disability
type: “strabismus patient” instead of “cross-eyed person”; “multiple sclerosis
patients” instead of “mugger's disease victim (and yes there was one such
thing).
The correct terminology is not only respectful but it also
removes the stigma of being a "disabled person." This is important
because many people with disabilities do not want to be identified as such, and
they don't think it's right for others to call them “disabled.”
Disability-friendly words:
This is the most important thing you can do to make sure your
disability-friendly language is correct.
· Person with a disability: Use this phrase when
referring to someone who has a physical or mental impairment that affects their
ability to carry out daily activities, such as walking or hearing. These
individuals are often called “people with disabilities” as they do not have any
other special qualities (such as being deaf) that make them in need of support
services based on their physical limitations alone.
· Person with a hearing impairment: If there is no other way for you to communicate without speaking directly into another person's ear, then it makes sense for them - especially if those around them don't speak up - but remember: never assume anything about how much time must be spent talking softly into each other's ears when interacting together!* Person whose mobility impairment prevents him/her from leaving home without assistance; who relies on help from others if he/she does go outside because he/she cannot get around on his own; etc.). Use this term only if appropriate context exists where both parties understand what each other means exactly."
Words that are often used but are inappropriate:
The following words are often used but are inappropriate:
● Disabled. This term should never be used to refer to
people with disabilities unless they are in a wheelchair or have an obvious
disability that is visible. Instead, use the word “handicapped” when referring
to people who are disabled due to some type of physical difference or
impairment that affects their quality of life.
● Handicapped person/cripple person - These words should
only be used by people with actual physical impairments; otherwise, they can be
considered offensive and insensitive.
● Paralyzed (can also mean numb). While paralysation is
possible in some instances (for example when someone loses all feeling below
their waist), this term is not appropriate for describing someone who has lost
some feeling but not all their ability for movement because it suggests that
there may still be some function left over after losing everything else!
● Orthopedically handicapped person- The correct usage is
- Person with Locomotor Disability.
● Deaf- Calling someone deaf or dumb has been criticized
for a good reason and you should use words like - Hard of hearing or Person
with hearing impairment.
● Blind - We encourage using words like Visual Impairment
or person with Low vision.
● Mentally retarded - If you’re still using this term,
stop it right away, The correct term is a person with- Intellectual Disability.
We can make society disability-friendly by using correct and disability-friendly words.
Because of the importance of using correct and disability-friendly words, you need to be aware of this. When someone says "it's an unfortunate situation," he or she may be referring to someone who has a disability. It is best if you use the right terminology when referring to people with disabilities. If you’re looking for assistive technologies for people with disabilities, Click here.
Conclusion
The right terminology is important in explaining to others how
someone with disabilities thinks and feels. It’s also important for people who
have disabilities themselves to feel included, because they may not understand
why certain words are used or have an alternative term that better describes
their experience. When you use the correct disability language, it helps make
your point clear and concise so that everyone can understand what you mean
quicker!
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