- Keep in mind that there are different degrees of intellectual impairments, and some people
- function at higher levels than others.
- Speak directly to the person and respect their expressed preferences as to choices or decisions.
- Take time and create trust first for the person to feel comfortable with you.
- Speak clearly and use short sentences and easy words.
- Repeat or rephrase what you have said.
- Use pictures or other visuals.
- Do not use a childish voice or exaggerate.
- Use easy-to-read material with simple messages and short sentences.
- Have a quiet and calm place for talking.
- Take your time and don’t hurry.
- Use gestures and facial expressions. For example, look sad when you are talking about being unhappy.
- Be patient if the person also has a speech impairment.
- Check with the person if they understand what you are saying. You can ask if she understands what you have just said. If not, repeat yourself or reword your sentence, and check if your language is simple enough.
Most importantly, ask someone themselves how they want to be addressed, and how they want to be supported or treated.
