According to the World Health Organization, healthcare disparities among people with disabilities often lead to early death, sometimes by as much as 20 years. Limiting factors include the negative attitudes of healthcare workers, the presentation of medical information that’s difficult to understand, and difficulties accessing healthcare providers.
People with disabilities are, unfortunately, at a considerably higher risk of contracting additional illnesses. Thus, they should be receiving individualised and frequent care from specialised healthcare providers. There is a need for the greater society to understand the plight facing people with disabilities.
“Change always begins with acknowledging that a problem exists. It’s crucial that as a society, we raise awareness on the topic of disabilities, learning and teaching others how to correctly work with people with disabilities, and promoting positive change,” says Sibo Dube, Patient Advocacy Lead at global healthcare company Novartis. Novartis has made it its mission to educate the public on health issues, create awareness, and advocate for transformation.
What constitutes as a disability?
Disabilities range widely in type, extent and severity, and each unique instance of disability should be treated differently. They can be caused by a variety of things from accidents to illness or old age. Disabilities can result in the loss of a limb, or simply hinder function – for example poor hearing or sight. As the individual’s bodily (or mental) function is affected – and especially because society doesn’t accommodate for these altered functions – people with disabilities often face poor work opportunities or access to social or recreational activities.
Due to the altered bodily or mental functions, a person with a disabilities is often at greater risk of other illnesses such as weight issues or obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, depression or anxiety.
Appropriate etiquette
Part of understanding people with disabilities is knowing of best to engage with them. This is especially true for healthcare workers. Sibo notes: “It requires a delicate balancing act between treating these individuals like you would treat anyone else and including them in all facets of society, while giving special attention or consideration to their particular needs. One tip that I usually give others is to focus on these individuals’ strengths and abilities rather than any impairments.”
Other dos and don’ts include:
- Ask before assisting someone.
- Use neutral and respectful language.
- Find and focus on commonalities and mutual interests.
- Make natural eye contact.
- Do not underestimate a person’s abilities.
- Where relevant, explain complex concepts in simple terms.
- Always be patient.
- Make facilities more easily accessible.
The QuadPara Association of South Africa published the Sawubona booklet to help educate people on the various disabilities, correct terminology and etiquette when engaging with people with disabilities. You can read or download the booklet here.
