Engagement & Communication with Persons with Intellectual Disabilities

Engagement and Communication Practices with Persons who have an Intellectual Disability

Disability engagement and communication requires some planning and thought, especially when you are working toward being a church where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. Many people have not thought about ways to make interactions with those of us who are disabled easier and more relaxed. To start with, remember that each person is unique and all of us are made in the image of God. If you encounter a disabled person who may need assistance, ask if help is wanted and exactly how you can help.

What is an intellectual disability?

Often written as intellectual and developmental disability, this category also includes cognitive and memory difficulties from dementia and head injuries. Persons may learn slowly and have poor judgment and planning skills. Common diagnoses include Down syndrome, fragile X, and autism. Many autistic individuals and persons with other developmental disabilities do not have intellectual disabilities and many persons have lacked adequate education and support to reach their full potential.

When you are with a person who has an intellectual disability:

  • Don’t make assumptions about what anyone can or cannot do.

  • Assume competence and that the person understands you.

  • Talk directly with the person even though they may not be able to respond verbally.

  • Introduce yourself and say that you are pleased to meet the person. Shake hands if that seems appropriate. Sometimes a “high five” works.

  • Speak in a normal tone of voice.

  • Use simple words and short sentences.

  • Stay away from slang or jargon and explain concepts or terms that are unfamiliar.

  • Give one piece of information at a time and allow time for processing what was said.

  • Repeat or rephrase your statement if needed.

  • Supplement verbal and written information with pictures or photographs.

  • Be honest if you don’t understand what the person is saying, but validate efforts to communicate.

  • Do not be condescending.

  • Be polite and patient. Do not treat an adult like a child.

  • Use age-appropriate topics and conversation. Find and discuss interests you have in common, e.g., movies, TV shows, sports events, church activities, families.

  • Mutual laughter goes a long way!

  • Be generous, but appropriate, with compliments when the person has accomplished a task, or taken initiative.

For more information:

Revised March 2024 by Rev. Debbie Hills, Deaconess Lynn Swedberg, and Tim Vermande. Based on a 2009 adaptation by Dr. Charlotte Shepard, Rev. Wineva Hankamer, and Rev. Dr. Devorah Greenstein of the 2004 National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA Equal Access Guide, pages 24-25.

https://www.unitedspinal.org/pdf/DisabilityEtiquette.pdf
https://thearc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/1.3-Respectful-Communication-Tips.docx