Promoting Inclusivity: 9 Ways to Support People With Disabilities
Inclusivity is more than just a buzzword; it’s an attitude, a way of living that supports and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Promoting inclusivity and supporting individuals with disabilities is crucial for building a more equitable and compassionate world. According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion people live with some form of disability, or 15% of the world’s population.
Accessibility is a fundamental right. In other words, everyone should have equal opportunities to participate fully in every aspect of life. All individuals should have access to places, products, and services that non-disabled people may take for granted. Unfortunately, often that’s not the case. However, we can make everyone feel valued and included by fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding.
Understanding Disabilities
A disability is a condition that can significantly hinder a person’s ability to engage in everyday activities or participate in society in the same way as others due to physical, mental, sensory, or cognitive impairments. Disabilities can vary significantly in their nature and severity and affect a person’s mobility, communication, learning, or self-care capabilities.
9 Practical Ways to Support People With Disabilities
Be Respectful
First and foremost, people with disabilities are people. They have dreams, aspirations, and feelings like everyone else. While disabilities can pose specific challenges, they do not define a person’s identity or value.
For example, use identity-first or person-first language when referring to individuals with a disability. But remember that no two people are the same and may have different preferences around language.
Regardless, treat individuals with disabilities as equals, acknowledging their abilities rather than focusing on their limitations.
Educate Yourself
It’s essential to learn about various disabilities and their unique challenges to be as supportive as possible. Take the time to understand the specific needs and abilities of people you encounter with disabilities. By familiarizing yourself with their conditions, you can better empathize and adapt to their requirements.
Communicate Openly
Maintaining open and honest communication is essential to supporting individuals with disabilities. Encourage them to express their needs, preferences, and concerns. You can build trust and establish a foundation for effective support by actively listening and engaging in respectful conversations.
Offer Assistance
Recognize that sometimes someone may require assistance, and be willing to offer help without being intrusive. Respect their autonomy by asking how you can assist rather than assuming what they need. For example, if they have a cognitive disability, you may need to repeat conversations or provide more time for them to grasp information. Small gestures like lending a hand, providing transportation, or helping with household tasks can significantly impact their lives.
Create Inclusive Environments
Promote inclusivity by ensuring that the environments you create are accessible and accommodating for people with disabilities. For example, you may need to make physical modifications like installing ramps or grab bars or provide technological aids like screen readers or text-to-speech software. Removing all types of barriers empowers people with disabilities to participate fully in activities and events.
Be an Advocate
Stand up for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Raise awareness in your community by participating in events, sharing resources, and supporting disability-related initiatives. Lending your voice to advocacy efforts helps create a more inclusive society that values and respects everyone.
Encourage Independence
While support is essential, it’s equally important to encourage independence and self-advocacy. Empower individuals with disabilities to make decisions and take control of their lives. Offer guidance and assistance when necessary, but also allow them the opportunity to navigate challenges and develop problem-solving skills.
Foster Social Connections
Social isolation can be a significant issue for people with disabilities. Encourage and facilitate social connections by organizing activities and events in an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and welcomed. Promoting social engagement can help combat loneliness and strengthen support networks.
Stay Updated on Resources
Stay informed about available resources and support networks in your community. Local disability organizations, government agencies, and online platforms offer a wealth of information and services. Share relevant resources to help people with disabilities access the support they need.
Promoting inclusivity and supporting people with disabilities is a collective responsibility. It begins with understanding and accepting the differences that make us unique. Supporting people with disabilities fosters an environment that values all individuals for their abilities and perspectives, contributing to a more equitable and robust society.
Help Us Improve Life for Adults With Disabilities
The Angelus in Hudson, Florida, strives to create a more inclusive and understanding society for adults with disabilities.
We offer a day program, five group homes, and many amenities for adults with disabilities, all on 17 beautiful wooded acres. As a nonprofit organization, the Angelus receives state funding but depends on donations that enable us to offer a high level of care.
Our person-centered Day Program services and activities include life and personal skills, arts and crafts, gardening, swimming, earth science, motor skills, technology and computer skills, personal and oral hygiene, personal assistance, and frequent repositioning.
Everyone can make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities to ensure they are treated with dignity, respected, and offered choices. There are many ways to help. Make a one-time or monthly gift, an in-kind contribution, participate in a fundraising event, or become a volunteer. Your donation can change a life!