Breaking the Myths: Understanding Disability and the Power of Inclusive Workspaces

Misconceptions about disability shape societal attitudes, often reinforcing discrimination and creating unnecessary barriers. 

This article will debunk some of the most common disability myths like disability defines people,  persons with disabilities are always in pain, and assuming that they are all and always dependent., while highlighting how our organization proves that people with disabilities can thrive in professional environments, contribute meaningfully, and redefine what inclusion truly means.

A Person’s Disability Defines Who They Are

People are more than their disabilities. One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that a person’s disability is their defining characteristic. People often use terms like “the disabled” instead of recognizing individuals beyond their conditions. At Participant Assistive Products, we strongly believe in person-first language—seeing people for their skills, talents, and contributions rather than their disabilities.

Take our co-founder, Dave Calver, for example. As a wheelchair user, he is not just someone with mobility impairment—he is a leader, a clinician, an athlete, an innovator, and a changemaker in the assistive technology industry. His vision for accessible and user-centric mobility solutions has shaped the company’s mission. Similarly, many of our employees who use wheelchairs are valued for their expertise, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, not just their mobility status.

People with Disabilities Are Always Sick or in Pain

The comfort and sympathy we all give to someone with the little flu don't fit wheelchair users who are out-crushing it in daily life.

There is a common assumption that individuals with disabilities are constantly suffering or in pain. While some conditions may involve chronic pain, disability itself does not automatically equate to illness. Most people with disabilities live active, fulfilling lives and, like anyone else, experience sickness only occasionally. 

In our workplace, employees who use wheelchairs actively participate in product development, marketing, customer support, and advocacy efforts. They don’t let their mobility impairments define their daily experiences, and they certainly aren’t in a perpetual state of suffering. Instead, they contribute to a workplace that values both innovation and lived experience.

 Disability is a Personal Tragedy That Deserves Pity

Disability is not a tragedy. Many people view disability as a misfortune that diminishes a person’s quality of life. This belief often leads to pity rather than respect. However, the real challenges often stem from society’s barriers—lack of accessibility, discrimination, and exclusion—rather than the disability itself.

We need to change the way we view disability. Instead of seeing people with disabilities as “victims” or passive recipients of aid, we should recognize them as experts in mobility and accessibility. Their firsthand experience gives them unique insights into designing assistive products that truly meet user needs. When people with disabilities are involved in shaping these solutions, the result isn’t just functional—it’s empowering.

 People with Disabilities Are Dependent and Always Need Help

A common misconception is that people with disabilities are helpless and constantly rely on others. While some may need assistance with specific tasks, this does not mean they are entirely dependent.

In reality, many individuals with disabilities live independently, pursue careers, and make decisions that impact their communities. Professionals with disabilities work in various fields, contributing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Their perspectives are invaluable, particularly in industries focused on accessibility and mobility. Many wheelchair users, for example, are strong advocates for self-reliance and accessibility—challenging the assumption that they always need help.

 Wheelchair Users Are “Confined” to Their Chairs

The phrase “confined to a wheelchair” is misleading. A wheelchair is not a prison—it’s a tool for freedom and mobility. Just as a person without a disability is not “confined” to their car, wheelchair users are not trapped in their chairs. Instead, they use them to navigate the world independently.

.Advisor Ralf Hotchkiss would say wheelchair users are ”riders”, like horse riders or people simply enjoying the ride. It is fun transport, not a prison. 

People with Disabilities Cannot Lead Full and Productive Lives

Perhaps one of the most damaging myths is the belief that disability prevents people from contributing meaningfully to society. This assumption not only underestimates their abilities but also creates unnecessary barriers to inclusion in professional spaces.

The truth is that people with disabilities are leaders, creators, and innovators. They work in product design, marketing, advocacy, education, technology, and countless other fields. Their contributions shape industries, influence policies, and drive progress. Disability is not a barrier to success—outdated perceptions are.

Creating an Inclusive Future

Breaking down these misconceptions is about more than changing language—it’s about shifting perspectives. Workplaces, schools, and communities benefit when they embrace inclusion and accessibility. Hiring and collaborating with people who have disabilities doesn’t just promote diversity; it strengthens innovation by incorporating firsthand knowledge into problem-solving.

Disability is not a limitation—it’s part of human diversity. By challenging old narratives and recognizing the value of lived experience, we move toward a world that is more inclusive, equitable, and representative of all people.

It’s time to replace myths with understanding, stereotypes with respect, and exclusion with true inclusion.

Tell us in the comments, what myths you have heard about persons with disabilities.