Disability Sensitization: 10 Commonly Made Mistakes and How to Improve Interactions with Persons with Disabilities (PwD)

Interacting with Persons with Disabilities (PwD) requires sensitivity and understanding. Here are 10 commonly made mistakes and suggestions on how to improve interactions:

1. People sometimes ask a PwD, "What's wrong with you?" or “How did this happen?” in the first meeting.

Mistake: This question can be intrusive and offensive.

Improvement: Instead, engage in open and friendly conversation without focusing on their disability. Respect privacy and focus on shared interests or common topics.

When you are on friendly terms with the person (this may not happen after many meetings also) and they are talking about their disability, you may ask, “How did this happen?” Watch for non-verbal cues. If they look uncomfortable, apologize quickly. You could say, "I realize that my question may have made you uncomfortable, and I want to sincerely apologize for any distress it may have caused.” Or you could say, "I didn't mean to intrude or make you feel uneasy. I am sorry if I did.”

1. Some people assume PwD are overly sensitive about their disability and do not want to hire them.

Mistake: Sensitivity varies; assumptions may lead to misunderstandings.

Improvement: Ask individuals about their comfort levels and preferences. Put yourself in their shoes and be empathetic to their needs and help them settle into their new role. Due to their dedication, talents, and loyalty to the company, it may turn out to be one of the best decisions you made.

1. PwD are frequently labeled as poor, needy, special, victims, sufferers, or lauded as courageous, brave, heroes, especially during introductions.

Mistake: Persons with disability, like everyone else, prefer to be treated as individuals without attaching unnecessary labels.

Improvement: Avoid stereotypical descriptions. If you have to introduce them, say, as a motivational speaker to an audience, better to ask the person how they would like to be introduced, instead of getting carried away with your own emotional interpretations of how their life has been. If you have to introduce them to another colleague, simply say, “Hi Vijay, meet Rupal. She is a Data Analyst. Rupal, this is Vijay. He is our Marketing Manager.” There is no need to mention the disability unless and until the need arises.

1. Often, people ask the PwD's friend or caregiver what they will eat or drink.

Mistake: It is not appropriate to exclude the person with disability from the conversation as if they are not present.

Improvement: Directly inquire with the individual about their preferences and needs. If you are with a person who cannot see, best is to offer to take them to the buffet table. You could say, “Would you like me to take you to the buffet table?” Once you are there, you could say, “I am guessing you would like me to tell you what’s on the table?” If they say yes, you could say, “Would you like me to serve you while you tell me what you want?” 

1. People frequently initiate pushing a wheelchair, assuming the user, seated in it, would be okay with or perhaps appreciative of the gesture.

Mistake: Most PwD need assistance with only some things and prefer to do the rest themselves and be independent.

Improvement: Avoid making assumptions about their capabilities, preferences or needs based on appearance. But be watchful of cues like discomfort, say, on an uneven surface. If you notice any discomfort, then you could politely say, “Please let me know in case you need any help.”

1. People frequently place their glass on the wheelchair tray or hang their bag on the wheelchair backrest.

Mistake: It invades the personal space of the wheelchair user and can compromise their mobility or comfort. A wheelchair user’s chair is their belonging, just like your phone or spectacles is your belonging.

Improvement: Respect their belongings and their personal space. Do not touch their belongings unless you have to, in which case, you should take permission first. Hold on to your glass or your bag, or find another place to keep them.

1. It's common for people to engage with a wheelchair user while remaining in a standing position.

Mistake: Engaging with a wheelchair user while standing is known to cause discomfort and stiffness in the user's neck.

Improvement: If you are going to speak for more than a few seconds, it’s best to find a chair or stool and sit on it to talk to them at their eye-level. This way is also more respectful.

1. People sometimes feel uncertain about interacting with a blind person, leading them to omit informing the person when they arrive and depart.

Mistake: This is a mistake as it can leave the blind person feeling disoriented and unaware of their surroundings.

Improvement: Inform them when entering or leaving a space, providing a clear understanding of their surroundings. Similarly, if a third person enters the space, introduce the third person to the blind person so they are aware.

1. People frequently hold onto the arm of a blind person when taking them somewhere, say, to a conference room or cafeteria.

Mistake: This invades the personal space and independence of the blind person.

Improvement: Offer your arm instead. You could say while offering your arm, “Would you like to take my arm while I guide you to the cafeteria?” That way, they can gently hold on to your arm. It’s nice to keep orienting them to their surroundings while guiding them to the destination. Remember to walk slowly as blind people often count their steps while walking to get a bearing of distances. Announce the hurdles on the way. You could say, “Right here, there is a threshold of a few inches,” or “There is a slight incline downwards.”

1. Sometimes a PwD will decline your offer for assistance.

Mistake: Assuming they declined your help because of something to do with you and feeling confused or disappointed. As mentioned earlier, most PwD need assistance with only some things and prefer to do the rest themselves and be independent.

Improvement: Respectfully acknowledging and accepting the person's decision to decline assistance; recognizing and respecting their independence and preferences. If you are present at the scene or walking with them, you could stay watchful for cues of discomfort and offer help again, if needed.

Remember, creating an inclusive environment involves recognizing and respecting the diverse experiences and preferences of Persons with Disabilities. It's essential to approach each interaction with openness, empathy, and a willingness to learn.