• A disability is a functional limitation or restriction of an individual’s ability to perform an activity. The word “disabled” is an adjective, not a noun. People are not conditions. It is therefore preferable not to use the term “the disabled,” but rather “people with disabilities.”

• Avoid categorizing people with disabilities as either super-achievers or tragic figures. Choose words that are non-judgmental, non-emotional, and are accurate descriptions. Avoid using “brave,” “courageous,” “inspirational,” or other similar words to describe a person with a disability. Remember that the majority of people with disabilities have similar aspirations as the rest of the population, and that words and images should reflect their inclusion in society, except where social isolation is the focal point.

• Avoid references that cause discomfort, guilt, pity, or insult. Words like “suffers from,” “stricken with,” “afflicted by,” “patient,” “disease,” or “sick” suggest constant pain and a sense of hopelessness. While this may be the case for some individuals, a disability is a condition that does not necessarily cause pain or require medical attention.

• Avoid words such as “burden,” “incompetent,” or “defective,” which suggest that people with disabilities are inferior and should be excluded from activities generally available to people without disabilities.