Communicating With and About People with Disabilities

Tips for Communicating with Individuals with Speech Impairments

• If you do not understand something the individual says, do not pretend that you do. Ask the individual to repeat what he or she said and then repeat it back.

• Be patient. Take as much time as necessary.

• Try to ask questions which require only short answers or a nod of the head.

• Concentrate on what the individual is saying.

• Do not speak for the individual or attempt to finish her or his sentences.

• If you are having difficulty understanding the individual, consider writing as an alternative means of communicating, but first ask the individual if this is acceptable.