This also applies to people with disabilities who are verbal.  I know plenty of people with disabilities who can speak, who do not do so with active confidence.  If you are ready to communicate, and engage those around you with confidence, you will be engaged back. 2.  If you are communicating with a stranger who has a disability, do it with openness, curiosity, friendship and respect.  With this perspective in mind, the right words and actions will come, and the exchange will be highly positive.