Disability Simulations- a Bad Thing?

I just came a cross a couple of articles written by Valerie Brew-Parrish titled The Wrong Message and The Wrong Message -- Still that explain why oft-used disability simulation exercises should be completely abolished. From the article:

Overwhelming feelings of pity well up in those who simulate a disability -- and pity does not equate with dignity. Disability simulations rob persons with disabilities of their dignity and self respect.

and this...

Nondisabled people usually come away from disability simulations

• thinking life is a tragedy for persons with disabilities,
• thanking the good Lord they are not saddled with a disability
• or falling prey to the "amazing" syndrome: "Ohhhhh just lookie at what disabled people can do! They're better than us at (getting around in the dark, popping wheelies, reading hand signs . . . )"

I think the articles make some valid points- what are your thoughts on disability simulations? Before you plan for or participate in a simulation in the future, perhaps you should consider Some Alternatives to Simulations Exercises.