Often people wonder how they should react when they meet a person who has a disability or is in a wheelchair. These people are active members of society and have identites beyond their disability. They should be included in all aspects of daily life andhave common courtesies extended to them when interacting withthem. A limited understanding of a person's situation may lead to an embarrassing situation that may have been avoided.

It is appropriate to shake hands with a person who has a disability, even if they have limited use of their hands or wear an artifical limb.

Speak directly to the person in the wheelchair, not to someone nearby as if the wheelchair user did not exist. There's no need to shout or speak patronisingly.

Ask the wheelchair user if he or she would like assistance before you offer help. It may not be needed. If your assistance is needed, then listen or ask for instructions.

If you are unsure about something, ask the person. The wheelchair user will best be able to answer any questions you may have about special needs or assistive techniques. They more than anyone have a vested interest in seeing that things go as smoothly as possible.

If a conversation lasts more than a few minutes, consider sitting down or kneeling to get yourself on the same level as the wheelchair user.

Don't use, "I have a friend in a wheelchair" as a conversations starter. Think about how many times a person who uses a wheelchair hears this every day.

A wheelchair user will see the wheelchair as being a part of their own personal body space, so don't lean on it, rock it, etc. There is a sense of security there because it allows a person to be mobile and independent.

Don't assume that using a wheelchair is in itself a tragedy. It's a means of freedom that allows the user to move about.

It is OK to use expressions like "running along" when speaking to the wheelchair user. It is likely that they will use similar expressions.

Do not discourage children from asking questions about the wheelchair. Open communication helps overcome fearful or negative attitudes.

When a wheelchair user transfers out of the wheelchair to a chair, toilet, car or bed, do not move the wheelchair out of reaching distance.

Ignore guide dogs or other service animals. Don't pet them, they are working.

"REMEMBER!"

Emphasize the person, NOT the disability!

People are not conditions!

Don't label them with the name of the condition, or as part of a disability group.

We don't say "the cancerous," nor should we say "the blind."