Dating with a Disability: Be Yourself and Talk Openly

My son has a disability. One of his favorite things in life is connecting with others. He’s been dating for several years, and each relationship has been unique. What dating looks like for him is not what I pictured, but he’s happy.

Right now, he has a girlfriend who lives about an hour away. They don’t get to see each other often since they both rely on family to get rides, but they talk on the phone most days. They support each other and feel close, even when they’re physically apart.

Everyone is different, and every relationship is unique. What matters most is focusing on what makes someone special: their personality, interests and how they treat others.

Good communication helps all relationships grow. For people with disabilities, it can be even more important.

It can help people with disabilities to explain to their partner what makes them feel safe or what kind of support they need. It’s a great idea to talk about these needs early on. Having a conversation where both people listen closely and express themselves honestly can help each person feel safe, respected and understood.

Planning a date with a disability might take a little extra time, but it can still be fun. Some people choose places that are easier to get to. This could be a park with ramps, a quiet restaurant, or a museum with wide paths. If meeting up is challenging, hanging out at home, doing a video call, or playing games together can be just as fun. What really matters is spending time with someone you care about, having fun, talking and laughing together.

Sometimes there are challenges. Not all places are accessible. Other people may not understand what it means to live with a disability. It takes a little planning and effort to solve these problems, but facing challenges together often helps build a stronger relationship. Dating with a disability might look different, but that’s what makes it unique. Everyone deserves love, friendship and the chance to connect with others. When we take time to listen, care and accommodate, we all grow stronger.

To find  more resources about healthy relationships, visit Texas Tech Health’s Healthy Relationships page.

There are numerous dating platforms and resources specifically designed for people with disabilities. Enter key words in your preferred search engine to find supportive communities.