Use person first language.
This is the first step to using inclusive language, as it describes the whole person. When describing a person based on an aspect of their identity, use this format:
a person with ________ or a person who/that is __________, instead of a __________ person.
For example, many people may say “an autistic person”, but it’s generally more inclusive to say: “a person with autism”.
There are people on the autism spectrum who define and call themselves autistic, but if you are an ally/person who is neurotypical, stick with person-first language unless told otherwise.
This is important not just in the presence of the person, but in all your references to that person- especially as a healthcare provider, caretaker, or educator.