Disabilities are part of the human experience, and yet many people still feel unsure about how to talk about it or how to best support someone with a disability. At SYNERGY HomeCare, we believe that understanding begins with listening. Everyone experiences disability differently, so there is no single story that represents them all. What matters most is respect, empathy, and inclusion.
Disability Looks Different for Everyone
No two people experience disability in the exact same way. Even if two people share the same diagnosis, their needs, strengths, and daily experiences can be very different. Disabilities are often grouped into categories such as physical, developmental, intellectual, and sensory, but every individual’s journey is unique. Recognizing and honoring these differences helps create more supportive communities.
Words Matter
The way we talk about someone’s disability is important. You might hear someone refer to themselves as a “person with a disability” (person-first language) or a “disabled person” (identity-first language). Both are valid, and the best choice is to follow the preference of the person you are speaking with.
Some words, however, should be avoided. Terms like “handicapped,” “impaired,” or “crippled,” are outdated and can be hurtful. That said, some disabled people may reclaim these words for themselves. If you hear this, it is their choice, but it is not appropriate for non-disabled people to use those terms. On a related note, terms like “differently abled” or “handicapable” may sound positive, but some feel those terms are unnecessary and that there is nothing wrong with the word “disability.”
The best approach is to just ask how someone prefers to be recognized and honor their choice, that way, you’re being respectful to everyone’s preferences.
Understanding Ableism
Ableism is discrimination, prejudice, or exclusion based on disability. It stems from the false belief that people without disabilities are better or more valuable than disabled people.
Ableism shows up in big and small ways:
• A building without ramps or wheelchair accessible bathrooms
• Assuming a disabled person cannot succeed at work or school
• Speaking to a caregiver instead of directly to the disabled individual
• Treating someone as “inspirational” for simply living their daily life
• Dismissing needed accommodations as “special treatment”
These actions may seem subtle, but they exclude and harm. Challenging ableism starts with awareness and choosing to see disabled people as equals with the same rights, potential, and dignity as anyone else.
How Families and Caregivers Can Help
Families play an important role in creating an empowering environment for their loved ones with disabilities. Here are some meaningful ways to offer support:
• Educate yourself – Learn about the disability, its challenges, and its strengths.
• Listen to disabled voices – Follow advocates, read their stories, and include their perspectives.
• Use respectful language – Follow the lead of the individual on how they want to be identified.
• Encourage independence – Provide opportunities for decision-making and self-advocacy.
• Promote inclusion – Choose accessible activities and spaces where everyone can participate.
• Challenge stereotypes – Speak up when you hear assumptions or myths about disability.
• Celebrate the little things – Focus on what your loved one can do and the joy they bring to the world.
Moving Toward Inclusion
What people with disabilities want you to know is simple: they want to be seen, heard, and respected as individuals, not defined by assumptions, limitations, or stereotypes. Disability is not a tragedy or something to “overcome.” It is one of many ways of experiencing life.
At SYNERGY HomeCare, we are committed to supporting individuals and families by fostering dignity, independence, and inclusion. To learn more about how to best support someone living with a disability, take a look at our Guide To Understanding And Supporting Adults With Disabilities or call (877) 432-2692.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
