Empathy not Symphony
I understand the need for individuals with disabilities to remain as independent as they possibly can. However, I find it hard to watch an individual with an obvious disability who refuses help. If an individual’s disability can put others in danger then that needs to be addressed. Although, some may think it noble for the person to continue to fall due to refusal of help; it appears that this is more of a selfish act than an independent one.
Gene,
As a general rule, I would be careful about trying to make a case on the basis of a threat to others. The risk assessment in such a case should focus on the danger to the student from continual falls, and the liability to the college if s/he is seriously injured. If someone else were close enough to the person that they might be injured when s/he falls, there probably wouldn't BE a fall! Any time decisions are made on the basis of speculation -- "but what if thus-and-so happens? -- there is a very real danger of that decision being made because of stereotyping, and that can easily lead to discriminatory action. Stick with what you know. The student falls. A lot. All over campus. That's a problem.
Dr. Jane Jarrow
I agree with the advice you gave to Sharon. Based on the situation she cited at the end of her statement, the individual continually falling is now a safety issue for the individual as well as for anyone near the individual. That would have to be addressed.
Sharon,
Hmmm... there is a difference between independence and stupidity (I am really not trying to be flippant!). If you are dealing with someone who does things slowly, or with great difficulty, when you could help them and get it done much faster, I would say "back off -- let them do it themselves!" But if you are talking about someone who is taking unnecessary RISK because they are too proud or too stubborn to accept help, I think it is time to talk frankly about the situation. And it sounds like you are more than capable of making that distinction (and initiating that conversation). Go for it!
Dr. Jane Jarrow
