When interacting with individuals with disabilities, be sure to put the person first. It is important to be conscious of people with disabilities and be prepared to interact with them as naturally as anyone else. They are your co-workers, neighbors and friends, and each has their own preferences.

Don’t let fear of saying or doing something "wrong" prevent you from getting to know someone who has a disability. If you are unsure of what to say when you first meet, just say "Hello." Here are more tips:

• People with disabilities deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. They have different personalities and preferences on how to do things. To find out what they prefer, ask.
• When you meet someone with a disability, it is appropriate to shake hands, even if a person has limited use or artificial limbs. Simply touch hands (or the person's prosthesis) to acknowledge his/her presence. Shaking the left hand is also fine.
• Always ask before you assist a person with a disability, and then listen carefully to any instructions. Do not interfere with control over his/her own assistive devices. For example, before you push someone’s wheelchair, ask if they need help. Likewise, never move crutches or communication boards out of the owner’s reach without permission.
• People with disabilities usually do not want to make the origin or details a topic of conversation. It’s best not to ask personal questions until you've become friends.
• Be considerate of how long it takes to get certain things done.
• Speak directly to the person with a disability rather than to a companion or sign language interpreter.
• Relax. Don't be embarrassed to use common expressions such as "I've got to run now," "See you later," or "Have you heard about..." even if the person doesn't run, see or hear well. People with disabilities use these phrases all the time.
• Some terms that might have sounded acceptable in the past, such as "crippled," "deaf and dumb," and "wheelchair-bound" are no longer acceptable because of negative connotations. Instead say "person with a disability," "Mary is deaf (or hard of hearing)," "Denise uses a wheelchair," and "Joe has mental retardation." This type of language focuses on the person first, and their disability afterwards. (See the list of “Words that Empower”.)
• Avoid excessive praise when people with disabilities accomplish normal tasks. Living with a disability is an adjustment and does not require exaggerated compliments.

There are many people with disabilities that are not apparent. Just because you cannot see a disability does not mean it doesn't exist. Use person-centered language, not disability-centered language.