Five Reasons Disability Inclusion Just Makes Sense

Sponsored by Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities

Disability inclusion means including people with disabilities in everyday activities and encouraging them to have experiences like those around them who do not have a disability. But why is disability inclusion so important? Thankfully, long gone are the days when people with developmental disabilities were shut away and segregated in institutions. But there still remain issues of isolation and exclusion, so let’s take a moment to focus on a few benefits of inclusion and why it just makes sense.

Reason 1: Inclusion creates empathy.
When people with and without developmental disabilities gather together, it gives them the opportunity to spend time with one another and learn about common interests. This supports the development of friendships and then naturally promotes empathy, social inclusion and understanding.

Reason 2: Inclusion helps people develop a positive self-image.
For people with disabilities, inclusion can help them realize their potential for growth. Inclusion increases self-esteem and self-worth. It gives people the ability to learn how to speak and express views, and become more responsible, independent, fearless and confident.

Reason 3: Inclusion promotes tolerance and reduces bullying.
Through inclusive actions, people with and without disabilities learn and exist side-by-side. As a result, communities see less bullying, teasing and other acts of intolerance.

Reason 4: Inclusion drives meaningful change.
The understanding that comes with an inclusive mindset can lead to new ideas and positive change. For example, while people with developmental disabilities have always had less access to healthcare, the situation is made worse because only one in five healthcare professionals is trained to treat them. As a result, people with disabilities die an average of 16 years earlier than the general population. Inclusive healthcare leads to changes which help provide better training and changes in policies, structures and institutions, which means healthier and longer lives for people with disabilities.

Reason 5: Inclusion helps us see the person first.
When all people are included in all aspects of our community, we are more likely to see the person rather than focus on their disability. We learn what we have in common versus what differences we have. We found common ground. We become more welcoming.

Have questions about including people with developmental disabilities as part of your community? The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities is happy to help any family or community members get the information they need to support and include people with disabilities. Call us at 330-725-7751 for more information.


Opinions and claims expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ScripType Publishing.