So… how can you help?
It boils down to patience and understanding, something that a lot of us struggle with while traveling. After all, when you’re waiting in lines, worrying about missing connections, missing sleep and/or sleeping in a strange bed, it’s perfectly normal to be a little on edge. But that doesn’t excuse berating a mother who’s having a hard time settling down her autistic son.
In an effort to make those friendlier skies a little friendlier, here are some basic etiquette guidelines for dealing with people with disabilities while you’re traveling:
- Remember the phrase “people with disabilities” – it’s important to understand that the person comes first, not the disability.
- Treat people with disabilities with dignity. Shake his or her hand; don’t be patronizing and pat them on the head, or some other potentially offensive gesture.
- When talking with someone who has a disability, speak directly to him or her, rather than through a companion.
- Don’t say “oh your life must be hell!” to a caretaker. Do say “do you need any help?”
- Don’t make assumptions about what someone’s disability may be. For instance, a speech impediment does not automatically mean that someone has a deeper issue.
- Relax. Don’t be embarrassed if you happen to use common expressions, such as “See you later” that seems to relate to the person’s disability.
- Be considerate of the extra time it might take a person with a disability to get somewhere, or to have a conversation. Allow them to set the pace in walking and talking.
- Don’t use offensive terms such as “cripple” or “retard” – it’s shocking how many people throw these terms around in this day and age.
Also, allow me to recommend a book – Buzz Bissinger’s Father’s Day, about his road trip with his adult son with a disability. It’s a great look at what it’s like to be a parent of someone with a disability, and how people with disabilities can achieve.
And remember – patience and understanding. It’ll make your trip better.