Encouraging New Abilities
An individual wanted to learn how to walk again, but they were nervous about falling. Instead of taking over, their Direct Support Professional (DSP) worked alongside the individual. The DSP made them feel comfortable and listened to their ideas. Together, they decided to first use a gait belt, walker, and had another DSP push their wheelchair behind them to be safe.
Before starting, they reviewed the steps and wrote them down. The DSP gave advice during the process, demonstrating how the individual should stand, take steps, and turn while walking. With step-by-step guidance, the professional encouraged the individual to complete each task independently. When the individual felt unsure about whether they could take another step, they communicated their concern, and the DSP calmly talked them through it and stayed by their side.
They had check-ins throughout the process. The DSP asked open-ended questions like, “How do you feel?” to inspire confidence, and the individual asked questions whenever they needed clarification. At the end of the activity, the individual successfully walked 100 ft, feeling proud of their accomplishment.
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12
What do most people believe is the key to a healthy relationship? Communication! Whether professional or personal, the way we speak with others determines how friendships, marriages, or job connections navigate problems and changes.
Looking to improve your communication skills? Start with these tips:
- Maintain gentle eye contact: Stay focused during a conversation, but remember you’re allowed to blink. Staring at someone for too long can come across as unpleasant.
- Think before you speak: Treat others the way you would want to be treated!
- Don’t make assumptions: Ask someone before you help them and know it’s easy to misinterpret body language. Someone sitting with their arms and legs crossed can appear to be angry, whereas they may just be uncomfortable.
These tips apply to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Listen with kindness, respond with graciousness, and have patience. Humanity is comprised of people with unique physical, mental, and emotional abilities – let’s empathize with one another.
The Greater Good Magazine explains, “Emotion researchers generally define empathy as the ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling.” Do you want to empathize with someone? Offer to support them by extending a helping hand. Direct Support Professionals support individuals with disabilities and cultivate memorable friendships.
If your friends describe you as nurturing and a natural helper, consider working as a Direct Support professional. Join a team that treats you like family and values your contribution. Check out ehvi.org to learn more.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/communication-matters/202107/why-communication-matters
https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/communication/nonverbal-communication
