People with disabilities are highly capable
Disabilities range widely in type, extent and severity, and each unique instance of disability should be treated differently.
People living with disabilities strive each day, sometimes against exceptional odds, to be considered productive and valued members of society.
According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), 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 difficult-to-understand medical information, and difficulties accessing healthcare providers.
Sibo Dube, the patient advocacy lead at the global healthcare company, Novartis, said: “Generally, people with disabilities are highly capable and can do most tasks put to them within reason. They should, in every sense of the word, be respected and appreciated for their contributions.”
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Dube said that medically speaking, disabilities are advanced health issues and that people living with them are, unfortunately, at a considerably higher risk of contracting other illnesses.
“As such, they should receive individualised and frequent care from specialised healthcare providers. Novartis has made it its mission to educate the public on health issues, create awareness and advocate for transformation.
“Change always begins with acknowledging that a problem exists. It is crucial that as a society, we raise awareness about disabilities, learn and teach others how to correctly work with people with disabilities and promote positive change,” said Dube.
What constitutes a disability?
Disabilities range widely in type, extent and severity, and each instance of disability should be treated differently.
There are three main classifications of disability, namely: impairment of a person’s bodily or mental structure and functions, such as a loss of limbs, vision, or memory; activity limitations, such as difficulty hearing or walking; and participation restrictions, such as being unable to work or participate in social and recreational activities.
The causes and risk factors for disability include illnesses such as epilepsy, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease; physical injuries; musculoskeletal disorders; poor overall health and weight issues and mental health problems and depression.
These can affect a person’s vision, hearing, ability to learn, remember, communicate or think and could lead to societal stigmatisation and discrimination.
Persons with disabilities are twice as likely to develop other conditions, such as depression, asthma, diabetes, bodily pains and obesity because certain conditions adversely affect the body in other ways.
Appropriate etiquette
Dube said it is understandably difficult to know how to correctly or appropriately work and interact with people with disabilities if someone hasn’t done so before.
“As for healthcare workers, it is considerably more important that they understand how to properly address and help people with a disability.
“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 I usually give others is to focus on these individuals’ strengths and abilities rather than any impairments.”
Other etiquette tips:
• Ask before assisting someone.
• Use neutral, respectful and non-offensive language.
• Find and focus on commonalities and mutual interests.
• Make natural eye contact at their eye level.
• Do not underestimate a person’s abilities.
• When relevant, explain complex concepts in simple terms.
• Always be patient.
• Make facilities easily accessible.
“Remember, always be respectful, treat others as you want to be treated, and just be yourself.
“Novartis’ purpose is to develop science-based innovation that produces breakthrough medicines and products that deliver better patient outcomes.
“Its ongoing research, especially in the areas of ageing and regenerative medicines, aims to fundamentally improve the health and lives of people living with disabilities,” Dube added.
He said the pharmaceutical company is intent on spreading awareness of disabilities and other public health issues and advocating for improved healthcare globally.
