How do we respect people with developmental disabilities? Let's be aware of this

When you look at the people around us in our society, you must have noticed that there are people who are very different from each other. The way some people think, the way they understand information, and the way they behave are a little different. The reason for this may be an intellectual or developmental disability (Intellectual or Developmental Disability – IDD). But you must have also felt that it is a little difficult to talk to such people and understand them, right? Today we are talking about how we respect such people and include them in our work.

What are Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs)?

Simply put, these are conditions that affect a person's learning, language skills, and behavior. They usually start in childhood and can last a lifetime. But this is not a disease. It is a part of their life.

Just think, not all of our fingers are the same. Similarly, every person with IDD is different. Even two people with the same condition may have different challenges, different ways of communicating, and different supports.

The table below shows several types of such disorders.

Let's learn about the discrimination called 'Ableism'

This may seem like a new word, but it means something we all know. Ableism is the act of treating someone unfairly or looking down on them because they have a disability. People who think this way believe that someone with a disability cannot do the same things as others and that they need to be 'made up'. This can be done consciously or unconsciously.

The exact opposite of this is inclusion . It means accepting others' differences as they are and encouraging them to participate in everything they are most comfortable with. In this way, they too can be happy, healthy, and reach their full potential.

How do we help and respect these people?

Okay, so let's look at some simple things we can do to respect these people and include them. Remember, everyone is different, so the most important thing is to ask them what they like.

1. Be aware of invisible disabilities as well.

Some disabilities are invisible to our eyes. Things like ADHD , autism , and learning disabilities are not visible. So don't ask someone unnecessary questions. Don't say things like, "You don't look like you have a disability." That suggests that their disability isn't real, or that it doesn't matter.

2. Respect their routine

Many people with IDD conditions like to work in a routine, orderly manner. It reduces their nervousness and anxiety . So if you plan something with them, tell them in advance, and make changes, they will feel much more comfortable working with you.

3. Create a calm environment

People with conditions like autism can find it a bit challenging to socialize. They may not be able to handle loud noises in crowded places. So, if possible, choose a quiet, low-noise place when talking to them or working. They find it easier to talk one-on-one than to have multiple people talking at once.

4. Include them in the conversation.

People with disabilities are often marginalized in society as invisible. Don't do that. When talking to them , look them in the eye, turn to them and speak. When asking them a question, let them answer. If they have an aide with them, talk directly to the person in question, not just to the aide.

5. Remember these things when communicating

• Speak in simple, clear language. Don't talk down to them. Speak in a normal voice, using simple sentences. Don't use rude expressions like "It's raining cats and dogs," because they often take things literally .
• Say one thing at a time. If you are asking questions or giving advice, give it one at a time. Rather than saying, “Don’t run,” say what you want to do clearly, such as “walk fast.”
• Listen patiently. Some people speak a little slowly. Give them time to think and form their words. It can also take them a while to understand what you are saying. So don't rush them.
• If you don't understand, be honest. If you don't understand what he said, ask him to repeat it. Or ask if he can say it another way. If you don't understand it after trying a few times, don't pretend to understand. Say something honest like, "I'm sorry , I know what you're saying is important, but I just couldn't understand it."

6. Respect different behaviors and habits

Many people with autism have difficulty looking others in the eye. If someone does, don't take it personally. If someone with Tourette Syndrome suddenly makes a noise while you're talking to them, wait until they finish talking and then continue. They can't control those things. They're not trying to disrespect you.

7. Don't think of it as something that needs to be 'fixed' or 'cured'.

Most people are happy with their lives. They don't see their disability as a problem that needs to be fixed. So don't make them feel "wrong" or make them feel uncomfortable by saying things like, "You're such a role model."

8. Use the right words

Rather than saying "disabled person", say "person with a disability"It is more respectful to say “I am a person.” This is called person-first language . It means we respect the person as a whole person, not just by their disability. But some people, for example, people with autism, prefer to be called “autistic person” rather than “person with autism.” This is called identity-first language . The best thing to do is to ask them, “How would you like to be called?”

By acting with care and patience in this way, we can better support our own friends, relatives, and fellow citizens with developmental disabilities.

Developmental disabilities, mental health , ableism, ADHD, autism, social awareness, respect