Engaging in relationships that might blossom into friendships can be especially challenging to people of all ages who happen to have disabilities. Despite decades of great advancements in disability rights and efforts at inclusion, we still have lots of inaccessible communities, substantially separate educational opportunities, group homes, sheltered work, etc.
Because of these dynamics, relationships for people with disabilities are often limited to family members, paid staff and other people with disabilities. There is absolutely nothing “wrong” with these relationships and, in fact, they may be critical to the individual. But all people benefit greatly by a diversity of relationships.
What is a friend? — We have chemistry! We enjoy each other’s company. We trust, understand, respect and appreciate each other. We like how we feel when we’re together. We are close even when we are apart. We look forward to being together. We commit over some time. We give to each other. We may not give in the same way but what we give and what we receive is of great value to each of us.
Everyone needs friends. People with friends are happier, healthier, and safer.
