Disability Etiquette Tips
- Use common sense and extend common courtesies to everyone.
- Don’t patronize (treat adults like adults.)
- Be patient (people with disabilities and seniors sometimes need a bit more time to express themselves or to move about).
- Relax and be yourself (don’t worry about using common phrases like “see you later”).
- Speak directly to the person and maintain eye contact (don’t speak through a companion/aide or interpreter).
- Help make your community accessible (become familiar with “accessible” building standards); help monitor proper use of accessible parking spaces.
- Offer assistance and listen for response-follow any specific directions.
- Do not pet, feed or distract service animals. They are working animals, not pets.
Information from the Rocky Mountain ADA IT Center, www.adainformation.org
