Uses crutches... walks with more or less difficulty
To help:
- walk at his or her pace;
- watch to prevent them from being jostled;
- don't move the crutches away;
- don't rush them.
Uses a wheelchair
They may have paralysis of all four limbs (quadriplegia) and depend on someone else; they may have paralysis of the legs only (paraplegia).
To help:
- ask what you can do to assist;
- avoid clumsy moves that might tip them out of the chair;
- watch for steps, curbs, and similar obstacles;
- never lift the wheelchair by its armrests;
- if possible, sit down when you speak with them;
- don't offer your hand first.
Is blind
Uses a white cane. They may have partial sight. Their vision ranges from zero to one-tenth.
To help:
- offer help if they hesitate or if you spot an obstacle;
- tell them your name without waiting;
- let them use the cane to feel obstacles;
- offer your arm; never take theirs;
- don't be offended if they refuse help.
Has cerebral palsy (spastic)
Walks badly, or not at all. Speaks badly, or not at all. Movements are odd and uncontrolled. May make involuntary grimaces, but is very sensitive. Fully aware of their condition.
To help:
- don't rush them;
- match their rhythm;
- if you don't understand what they say, ask them to repeat—they will understand you;
- don't be put off by appearance. Be natural. Smile. They are a person, just like you.
Has intellectual disability
Has limited intelligence. May have certain facial features (mongoloid). Movements may be somewhat clumsy. The disability is rarely inherited; it usually results from illness or injury.
To help:
- don't be afraid of them, don't mock them, respect them;
- don't discuss their disability in front of them—they understand more than you think;
- be patient: they react slowly to everything;
- build a connection with them or with those around them;
- be natural... smile. They are a person, just like you.
Is deaf
Totally deaf or hard of hearing. May be mute or very difficult to understand.
To help:
- always face them and make sure you're well lit;
- speak slowly, clearly, with simple words easy to read on your lips;
- if you have trouble being understood, write.
One family in four is affected by disability. Why don't you meet people with disabilities?
- Because they cannot use public transportation;
- because homes, buildings, public spaces, and schools are inaccessible, not designed with disability in mind;
- because they haven't been able to join social life;
- because they are kept at home.
Translation of a pamphlet produced by the "Disability" Commission of the Young Women's Movement—8, Villa du Parc Montsouris, 75014, Paris
What can you do?Contact an association. Ask Ombre e Luci for guidance—we will help you get to know them, to love them, to respect them, and to give some of your time to them. - Editorial Staff, 1988