How to Have a Night Out with a Disabled Friend

by Leah Spencer

How to have a night out with a disabled friend

Think Ahead. Check the local spots for accessibility concerns, especially if your friend needs a place without steps, available wheelchair seating, accessible bathrooms, etc.

Be the "Buffer". If your friend uses a chair, they can easily get bumped or spilled on in a packed bar or club. Position yourself as a "shield" when moving through a crowd so they don’t have to navigate the sea of elbows alone. 

Plans can wait. Do not be offended if they cancel or leave early. It’s likely due to a disability flare up, sensory overloads, or something else that is not within your control.

Mind the Menu. If ordering food for the table, consider whether it fits the party’s dietary restrictions or if the pressure of eating food could be a trigger for anyone involved.

Adapt the fun. Always include your friend even if they can’t participate the same way as others. Don’t let a physical disability stop you from figuring out a way to dance with your friend.

Scout the route. Do not make plans to change locations together without checking that disabled individuals involved are comfortable travelling to a new place, especially if walking.

Know the Law. Never give in to the blatant ableism around you. If a bar won’t let your friend’s service dog in, stand up for them and make sure they know you won’t stand for them ignoring basic rights.

Advocate Quietly. Show your friend that you care for them to be included in the little ways. For example, if you see a TV at a bar, mention to the staff that they could add closed captioning for your deaf friend.