Adaptive Rock Climbing for People With Disabilities: Be Open

Video Transcript

"And, before I leave you today I want to remind you how important it is to be, to use people first language when setting up this system. If somebody's in their sling seat, you don't want to say yea, I'm going to help the handicapped person go rock climbing. The person's not handicapped, they still have abilities, keep in mind people first language. You'll be amazed at the abilities somebody does have, and it's all keeping in mind that quote- "be open." Be open because some communicators are deaf, because some movers and shakers are paralyzed, because the only true disability is a mind stuck in the closed position. And, that quote goes for the helpers, the participant, and everyone involved. Always use people first language and be innovative. Each participants situation is going to be a little bit different. Maybe, you might have to bring a pillow to put into the sling seat for the participant so their head and neck is supported. A lot of times indoor climbing gyms can be a little chilly, maybe you want to make sure the participant has enough warm clothing on so their not getting cold. Use people first language, be patient, and be open to innovation."