Cognitive Accessibility

Welcome to Cognitive Accessibility! This disability is very complicated as it mainly hits on the brain or head. Because their is limited research on the brain right now, there is not a lot we can do other than early diagnosis through medical technology. A cognitive disability is a problem with a person's ability to think or perceive objects. Some might include: Autism, brain injuries, stroke, Alzheimer's, and other dementias. In this chapter, you will be able to understand the basics of interacting with people who have a cognitive disability.

Did You Know?

13.9 percent of people in the US alone have some type of cognitive disability, whether it is Autism, Alzheimer's, etc. (CDC.gov as if 2024)

How to approach a person who has a cognitive disability?

Whenever you approach someone has a cognitive disability, make sure to keep these in mind

DO's

  • Do be very patient when the person is trying to speak

  • Do try to be attentive to what the person is trying to say

  • Do use visual aids if communication is difficult for the person and you

  • Do adjust your approach when speaking to the person

  • Do speak clearly and simply to the person so it is less cognitive load

DONT's

  • Don't talk the person down by creating a childish tone towards them

  • Don't rush or pressure the person when they are speaking

  • Don't use abstract language with complex terms - keep it simple to understand

  • Don't get frustrated when the person is talking

  • Don't assume the person needs help every time they try to do something

If you want to learn more about these approaches, make sure to check this website (https://www.dhs.state.il.us - link is attached in the button):

Do's and Don'ts

Technology

There are multiple technologies that can help a person with a cognitive disability. Here are such AT's (Assistive Technology)

  • AT Readability Checkers

  • AT Simple Layouts and Reduced Animations

Famous people with cognitive impairments

Lebron James Bill Gates Walt Disney

Because of the wide spectrum of cognitive disabilities, there are more ways to approach a person with cognitive disability. The most important ideas to take at the end of the day is to be more patient and change your talking tone to a more comfortable one for the person. Don't use terms like 'are you autistic' to a person who doesn't have a cognitive disability because it could be offensive to a person who has the actual disability.

On the bottom, you can click the button to see if how much you have learned!

Conclusion and Quiz

Take A Quiz!