Contains tips for communicating & interacting respectfully with disabled persons. Explains how using positive & non-patronizing language when speaking will show respect & lead to better interaction. Each chapter covers interactions with different kinds of disabled people, such as the wheel-chair bound, mobility impaired, blind or visually impaired, deaf-blind or blind-deaf, speech impaired, epilepsy, hard of hearing, epilepsy, mental retardation, psychiatric disabilities, learning disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, & people with HIV or AIDS. Bibliography.

This Handbook represents the first comprehensive collection of research on communication and people with disabilities. The editors have brought together original contributions focusing on the identity, social, and relationship adjustments faced by people with disabilities and those with whom they relate. Essays report on topics across the communication spectrum--interpersonal and relationship issues, people with disabilities in organizational settings, disability and culture, media and technologies, communication issues as they impact specific types of disabilities--and establish a future agenda for communication and disability research. Each chapter provides a state-of-the-art literature review, practical applications of the material, and keywords and discussion questions to facilitate classroom use. In providing an outlet for current research on communication and disability issues, this unique collection contributes to the lives of people with and without disabilities, helping them to improve their own communication and relationships. Intended for readers in communication, psychology, sociology, rehabilitation, social work, special education, gerontology, and related disciplines, this handbook is certain to augment further theory and research, as well as offer insights for both personal and professional relationships.

A lot of progress has been made toward breaking down barriers in employment, education, and accessibility, but actual communication and interaction with people with disabilities still needs attention. Many people are afraid of accidentally saying something that will offend a person with a disability, so they say nothing and avoid contact. In this publication you will find suggestions that will help educate people about communicating with people with disabilities.