The rule
Use neutral, person-centered language that avoids harmful stereotypes.
Why it matters
Language is a core part of inclusive design that helps users feel welcomed and respected. Using outdated or "victim" language creates social barriers and can be deeply offensive to the communities you are writing for.
How to apply it
- Use "person with a disability" (person-first) unless a specific group prefers identity-first language like "Deaf person".
- Avoid phrases like "suffers from," "afflicted by," or "confined to".
- Focus on functional needs (e.g., "uses a wheelchair") rather than medical diagnoses.
- Capitalize the first letter of each word in a hashtag (#CamelCase) to help screen readers distinguish words.
Example
Before and after
Avoid
"The handicapped."
Better
"People with disabilities."
Tensions and exceptions
Preferences for person-first vs. identity-first language vary significantly between communities (e.g., many Autistic and Deaf people prefer identity-first). It is always best to check the preference of the specific group you are addressing.