To the health worker 43
Helping women with particular disabilities
A woman who is blind or has difficulty seeing
• Unless it is an emergency, do not touch
the woman before telling her who you are.
• Do not think she cannot see you at all.
• Speak in your normal voice.
Explain to me where I am
and guide me to a chair
or exam table. Do not
leave me in the middle of
a room.
• If she has a stick, do not take it away
from her at any time.
• Say good-bye before walking away or leaving.
A woman who is deaf or has difficulty hearing
• Make sure you have her attention before speaking.
Look at me
If she is not facing you, touch her gently on the
and not at my
shoulder.
sign language
interpreter or at
• Do not shout or exaggerate your speech.
the family member • Look directly at her, and do not cover your mouth
who interprets my with anything.
home signs.
• Ask her what is the best way of communicating.
A woman who has difficulty moving
• Do not assume she is mentally slow.
• If possible, sit so that you are at eye level with her.
Speak directly with me
and not to my family
member or caregiver.
• Do not move any crutches, sticks, walkers, or
wheelchairs without the woman’s permission or without arranging
for their return.
• If she is a wheelchair user, do not lean on or touch her wheelchair
without her permission.
A woman who does not speak clearly
Do not pretend you
understand me if
you do not.
• Even though her speech may be slow or difficult
to understand, this does not mean she has any
difficulties learning or understanding.
• Ask her to repeat anything you do not
understand.
• Ask questions she can answer by “yes” or “no.”
• Let her take as much time as she
needs to explain her problem. Be patient.
A woman who has trouble learning or understanding
• Use simple words and short sentences.
• Be polite and patient, and do not treat her like a child.
Give me one piece
of information at a
time and repeat it if
necessary.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007