Can anyone give me some recommendations that will put both me and the person with the disability more at ease?

?You’re welcome.

Thanks for your advice.

 Talk directly to the person with the disability, maintaining eye contact, even if he/she is using an interpreter or personal assistant.
 Encourage the person with the disability to express his/her own opinions, even when parents or friends feel they can speak for the individual.
 Ask if assistance is needed rather than assuming it is. If the person says, “No, thanks,” don’t pressure him/her to accept help anyway.
 Use a normal tone of voice. If the person cannot hear or understand you, he/she will let you know.
 When talking with a person with a cognitive disability, speak in simple, clear sentences. Remember that simple language does not mean childish language.
 When appropriate, ask the person to put in his or her own words what has been said to confirm understanding.