Remember to address them as you would any other person, do not treat them like they are people who have trouble understanding. It is important to understand that they might understand everything you are saying but are having trouble replying verbally. It does not indicate a deficiency in cognitive thinking.

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Don’t embellish your speech with sarcasm, jokes, and teases. Be clear with what you want to convey and ensure your speech is succinct.

 

Be a great listener, take time to be patient, and understand what they want to convey, and if you do not understand something they are trying to convey, politely ask them more questions to clarify.

Let them take their time, if they do not reply to you immediately just wait a little longer, give them time to process the information, and come up with a response.

If you think their response to something is not socially acceptable, let them know politely. Giving them honest feedback will go a long way in helping them better their social skills.

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More than anything, remember being kind and empathetic goes a long way. Do not call them names (behind their backs too) and make an attempt to make their lives a little easier.