What is the correct terminology to use when referring to anyone with a disability?
Asked by: Laurel Johnson | Last update: April 19, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (6 votes)
How do you refer to people with disabilities?
Don't automatically refer to 'disabled people' in all communications – many people who need disability benefits and services don't identify with this term. Consider using 'people with health conditions or impairments' if it seems more appropriate.
What do I call someone with a disability?
(The debate over the use of handicap versus disabled has not been settled. Check to see which term individuals might prefer.) More Appropriate: people with disabilities, deaf people, blind people, persons with a developmental disability.
When referring to people with disabilities which phrase is respectful?
PFL uses phrases such as “person with a disability,” “individuals with disabilities,” and “children with disabilities,” as opposed to phrases that identify people based solely on their disability, such as “the disabled.” The phrase “mental retardation” is offensive and outdated.
What is the proper name for people with disabilities?
Avoid “deaf and dumb” and “deaf-mute” since people with speech and hearing disabilities can express themselves “in writing, through sign language, and in other ways.” [NCDJ] The term “hearing impaired” is also not recommended. Differently-abled, Special, Gifted Use “person with disability” or “disabled person” instead.
What are Some Proper Terms to Use When Speaking about #Disability Regarding People or a Group?
What is the politically correct term for people with disabilities?
“Persons with disabilities” is a more neutral term than “differently abled”.
How is the phrase individuals with disabilities defined in the ADA?
An individual with a disability is a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities; has a record of such an impairment; or is regarded as having such an impairment.
Which words and phrases are considered respectful?
- Please.
- Thank You.
- You're Welcome.
- Pardon Me.
- Excuse Me.
- I'm Sorry.
- May I Help You?
- I Would Like... / May I Please Have...?
What is the difference between disabled and handicapped people?
As traditionally used, impairment refers to a problem with a structure or organ of the body; disability is a functional limitation with regard to a particular activity; and handicap refers to a disadvantage in filling a role in life relative to a peer group.
What is an euphemism for a person with disability?
Euphemisms. People often avoid the word disability because they think it is a bad word. They may use phrases that make them feel more comfortable, like “special needs,” “differently abled” or “abilities” as a substitute for disabilities.
What is a synonym for individuals with disabilities?
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disabled. crippled. paralyzed. impaired. incapacitated.
Why is it better to use the term "accessible" rather than "handicapped"?
Final answer: The term "handicapped" is often seen as offensive because it suggests limitations, whereas "accessible" promotes inclusivity and recognizes the need for societal changes to support individuals with disabilities.
What is the proper way to address people with disabilities?
Examples include “people with disabilities” instead of “disabled people;” “a person who uses a wheelchair,” not a “wheelchair-bound person;” and “people who are hard of hearing,” not “deaf people.” Many people with disabilities prefer identity-first language (e.g., “disabled person,” “Autistic”), which is a reclamation ...
What term do we use for disabled person answer?
Disabled is a describing word and should not be used to categorize a group of individuals. For example “disabled people” should be used rather than “the disabled”. Disability and disabled can be used interchangeably but it's important to remember to use people-first language, which is explained later in this blog.
What are the four polite words?
The building blocks of proper etiquette and good manners begin with the magic words "please", "thank you", "you're welcome" and "I'm sorry". These are the words and phrases that should be taught to children from an early age.
What is the language etiquette for disability?
Avoid terms like 'special needs', 'differently abled', 'person of all abilities' or language that implies a person with disability is inspirational because of their disability. 'Person with disability' identifies the person rather than the disability. For example, use 'person who is blind instead' of 'blind person'.
How to express respect in words to someone?
- “Please” It may seem basic, but treating others with respect goes a long way. ...
- “Thank You” ...
- “Tell Me More” ...
- “I'm Proud of You” ...
- “What Do You Think?” ...
- “It's Your Call” ...
- “You're Doing Great” ...
- “We're All in This Together”
What are the four fundamental rights for people with disabilities?
Persons with disabilities have the same rights as all people to non-discrimination, access, equality of opportunity, inclusion and full participation in society. These are the basic principles underlying the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
What does the ADA say about people with disabilities?
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. It also applies to the United States Congress.
What is the new term for disabled people?
Handicapped Accessible or Disabled Use the appropriate alternatives such as “accessible bathrooms”, “accessible parking spots”, “disabled athletes”, or “athletes with disabilities”. Moron / Dumb Say “that makes no sense” or “that's ridiculous”. Avoid using these words as an insult.
What is the word substitution for one who Cannot walk?
Complete answer:
A person who cannot walk is named a Disability.