Understanding Non-Apparent Disabilities

People with disabilities are the largest minority and fastest-growing subgroup of our population. Over 70% of disabilities are non-apparent, so we are not necessarily aware that our friends, colleagues, clients, or neighbors have them. It is important to recognize that just because we can’t see a disability that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. This session will encourage an open dialog that will help attendees to “always ask, never assume” if a person needs assistance or has a disability.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn about the disability community diversity
• Quick look: ADA and the ADAAA
• Learn about non-apparent disabilities, including Long Covid, mental health conditions and chronic health conditions
• Learn how language has evolved and how to change your perspectives
• Learn about self-disclosure -the why and why not
• How to leverage your new knowledge