General Disability Etiquette – Respectful Communication

Speak directly to the person

Do: Speak to the person with the disability, not their caregiver or companion. It’s important to engage with the person, not assume they are not part of the conversation.

Example: “Would you like help with that?” (spoken directly to the person, not the caregiver).

These “Think Again” reminders are courtesy of ILICIL Independent Lifestyles, Inc. in Sauk Rapids Minnesota.

UPCOMING EVENTS JUST FOR YOU!

NCIL 2026 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
July 20-23, Washington D.C.

The theme of NCIL’s 2026 Annual Conference on Independent Living is Protect. Persist. Prosper. There will come a day when the chaos and trauma of this moment are behind us. We cannot lose focus on building the future we deserve – a future in which our community thrives, prospers, and is respected for its contributions.

Find more accessible events at www.dacnw.org/events

DID YOU KNOW?

17% of Americans have Dry Eye Disease? According to a study of more than 2,000 people, 67% brushed off symptoms, eye fatigue, itchiness and (surprisingly) watery eyes. If you regularly experience these symptoms, it’s important to see your eye doctor. If left untreated, dry eye disease can raise your risk for eye infections, inflammation, and even vision loss. Most cases can be treated with over-the-counter eye drops.

QUOTES TO MAKE YOU THINK

Society’s accumulated myths and fears about disability and disease are as handicapping as are the physical limitations.”

~ William J. Brennan Jr.