How to Talk to a Paralyzed Person
A person who is paralyzed is still a person, and needs communication with other people every day. There are a few things to remember when you talk with a person who is disabled in this way. Respect for their personhood is paramount. Follow these steps for a successful conversation.
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Instructions
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Put yourself on the same eye-level with them if you are going to be saying more than a few words to the person who is paralyzed. Either sit in a chair or kneel on one knee where you can maintain eye contact.
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Relax and talk directly to the paralyzed person, not to their caregiver or other people around them.
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Use humor if appropriate, but don't make jokes about their disability and don't mention it unless they speak of it first or it is essential to the conversation. Persons who are paralyzed can still enjoy good-taste humor.
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Give the paralyzed person time to say what they need to. Some have difficulty speaking due to their disability. If you don't understand what they are saying, don't pretend to. Rephrase your question and listen carefully, or offer them a pen and paper as a last resort, if they have use of their hands.
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Talk to the paralyzed person as an adult, and don't patronize. Use a normal tone of voice and volume and don't move in closer than normal. Yield them their personal space.
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Keep yourself current on preferred terms with which to refer to persons with disabilities and avoid stereotyping. Always afford them the same level of respect and dignity that you would want applied to you.
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Tips & Warnings
Using the terms, "person with paralysis" or "person who is paralyzed" puts the emphasis on the person, and is a good idea.
Let the person who is paralyzed make an effort to extend their hand before you make a move to touch or shake their hand. They may not be able to shake, and it would likely embarass them.
