Assist the Disabled in the Right Way

Hi folks,

I though of sharing my experience about assisting a disabled people…the reason being after hearing one mobility-impaired gentleman remarked his fear of being pulled and eventually fell down when being assisted by another able-bodied person.

During my Honors Degree project, I choose to research on computer interface design which suits different types of disabled user. Thus throughout the research study, I had the chance to meet up and interview and became friends with some of these wonderful and strong-hearted people!

Honestly at that point of time, I realized how "disabled" I am, spiritually as compared to them. Despite their disability, they are striving hard and living life to their fullest! Each moment is spent overcoming each hurdle they faced in their daily lives. Never give up attitude which is greatly lacking in able-bodied person I am. One fine example is when one visually-impaired("blind" person told me that it is common and like everyday "incident" that they might trip over a pothole or uneven ground.

Enough said, I like to just highlight some short points/guideline in assisting the disabled group. I hope this may help everyone to assist in the proper or better way!

1.       When assisting visually-impaired person to walk/cross the road, offer your shoulder to them and walk in front of them. Do not pull their hand. They might lose their balance and fall. Same applies for mobility-impaired or even old folks.

2.  Treat them equally. Even though you could possibly give some assistance but they also be most grateful if we give them equal treatment and respect.

3.  For web developers/web content designer, it's wise to supply alt text on images being put up as most of the voice synthesizer used by the visually-impaired cannot read graphic.

4. Architext or building/public transport designer, proper and safe ramp and spacious sitting area, ample big space parking bay are some little kind act that you can include in your design.

5. Computer hardware equipment , though they are grateful for special device for them(the special disabled group), what I found out from my research study is they still prefered to adapt to the "normal" or "common" hardware used by common folks like us, mainly 'cos the cost of getting a specially-designed device is far beyond their means. Personally, I felt if the hardware designed for all has cater for these group of people, not only will they have a bigger chunk of market, they might even conquer the up-and-coming older folks or "golden age" generation who are fast adapting to IT ;) Talking about commercial value here!

 

 So here's my pinch of thoughts. Have you all have something to add or feedback?

Love to hear from you!

 

Cheers!