People First Language
RHC strongly encourages People First Language (also referred to as Person First). This language is an accurate way of referring to a person with a disability, whether you are speaking or writing. Words and how they are used shape attitudes. Incorporating People First Language into our everyday language demonstrates that we believe all people are unique and their abilities or disabilities are part of who they are, not a definition of who they are. We rely upon our staff, volunteers, families and friends to model and promote People First Language.
People First Language helps break down barriers, foster mutual respect, and open lines of communication and acceptance.
| Do use | Don't use |
| Congenital disability | Birth defect |
| Uses a wheelchair | Wheelchair bound |
| Has a disability | Handicapped or disabled |
| Deaf, hard of hearing | Hearing impaired |
| Person of small (or short) stature |
Dwarf or midget |
| Person with epilepsy | Epileptic |
| Indivdual with disabilities | Client or consumer |
| Brain injury | Brain damaged |
| Accessible parking | Handicapped parking |
| Typical, typically developing | Normal or healthy |
| Communicates without speaking | Non-verbal |
| Physical disabiity | Victim, afflicted, suffers from |
For more information or if you have a specific question regarding People First Language, please contact Debbie Moorehous, Community Relations Department at 513.619-2903 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
