As decades go by, accessibility options for individuals with disabilities have improved. They still have a long way to go, but definitely have improved. In terms of entertainment, now it is the norm to be able to attend movie theaters with audio description and closed captioning, talking tv’s and remote features, etc. These types of features offer more independence. There are also various apps and phones that offer enhanced capabilities and opportunities as well.
So, with technology evolving, what about the human mind? The world can have all of the technology, but it also takes acceptance and empathy to be able to enjoy the advances. It is said that it is not necessarily the disability itself that can be hard, but rather people’s attitudes. People with disabilities are for the most part still not seen as equal counterparts. This remains true in the employment sector, as well as social arenas, such as relationships. Particularly, dating.
Going back to entertainment, there have been popular television shows modeled off the experiences with disabilities, but again, it is the population that is misunderstood and often left out. Such shows include Dating In The Dark and Love Is Blind. Yet when it comes to being outside of the camera, where is that same interest and enthusiasm to get to know someone who has experienced these things? Or, for that matter, what about getting to know someone outside of their disability? It is one part of their identity, not all encompassing. Food for thought, treat others as you would want to be treated.
About the author