«You should not change the format of communication with a veteran solely because he/she has a disability. It is clear that there are certain peculiarities. For example, when addressing a person with post-concussion syndrome who has poor hearing, you need to speak louder. However, the general rule is relevant - be yourself. In particular, if you have the habit of shaking hands when meeting, it will be quite natural to shake hands with a person with a disability. Even those who have difficulty moving their hand or who use a prosthesis,» this section emphasizes.
Focus not on the person's disability, but on their personality or the problem you are discussing with them. Be careful in communication, respect the person you are talking to.
If possible, position yourself so that your face is level with the person you are talking to.
Remember that a wheelchair is part of a person's inviolable space, so do not lean on it.
If you don’t know how to communicate with a person with a disability, what words to use, ask how it would be more convenient. In general, it is worth looking for an individual approach to communicating with each person, regardless of disability. Therefore, the question: «How is it convenient for you?» is always correct.
If If you don't know what to do, ask.
Be patient and attentive when listening to a person with speech impairment. Give them more time to express their thoughts, show genuine interest in the dialogue to motivate the interlocutor to communicate. If this is someone close to you, suggest that they familiarize themselves with the TippyTalk application (an application designed to improve communication for people with speech impairments).
Don't pay too much attention, after all, people with disabilities do not always need such additional attention.
Do not help a person with a disability without their permission or request, so as not to offend their dignity and violate their personal boundaries. If you offer help, wait until it is accepted, and then ask what and how to do it.
Don't impose your help, It's best to find out from the person what kind of help they need from the beginning. If the person refuses, respect their choice. Remember that personal boundaries are important.
Accept jokes from a person with a disability correctly. She may tell stories in a humorous format about what led to the injury, make witty comparisons, tell jokes. You should not react sharply or sympathetically to this. Perhaps they see you as a person included in the conversation who can be trusted, and this is how they establish contact with you.
Any pity is unacceptable. Sympathy is normal, but it is better to support and help move on, rather than expressing pity nonverbally or with words like: "Oh, you are so poor.".