by Melia Benjamin

Created on: September 25, 2008

When Should You Assist those with a disabilities?:

Adults with physical disabilities may have many setbacks that may prevent them from doing things the same way that others might do them. Physical tasks are often difficult when faced with limited physical dexterity some tasks can take much longer than others but it is always a good idea to let those with disabilities to try before offering help. In most cases, the disabled person will ask for help when needed.

Help can become a hindrance if another is quick to judge when a person needs help. The best idea is to use your best judgment and offer help only when the person asks or when they look rather frustrated while doing a task. Many a times a person can be read like an open book when it comes to becoming disturbed by not being able to do something that is when one should ask, kindly, "Is there anything I can do to help?" If they say no don't insist on helping, give them time to try doing it themselves.

How to Treat the Disabled:

Treat the disabled as you would any other person. The fact is that everyone needs help no matter if they are disabled or not and nobody likes to be offered too much help when they don't need it. For disabled people they often love the challenge and it is good therapy for them. They want to be as independent as they are physically able. Always remember that even if it may look difficult to you just because they do a task a different way but they only do it differently because that is the only way they can do it. For example, there are some people that tie their shoes with just one hand although it looks unusual it is only because they do not have the use of the other hand. Remember though that they have more than likely performed the task for years.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Remember, if you are uncomfortable that should not be the disabled person's problem. Get over it! Life is hard for everyone and thus as an able-bodied person you should stand back and let the person try before asking for assistance. Don't let your own judgments interfere with anyone's growth because that can be damaging to anyone's psyche whether disabled or not.

In closing, the one thing that needs to be remembered is that disabled people can do more than one may previously think. Another person's way may be easier for many but not for others that may not be the case. Keep in mind that everyone is different and thus they may like to do things differently just to be unique.

Learn more about this author, Melia Benjamin.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.