Interacting with people who are blind is no different than interacting with those who are not. Some of us may be overwhelmed, or out of our comfort zone, when confronted with someone with visual difficulty. However, the social etiquette is no different. Treat them with respect, and courtesy, and as individuals. They are no different from you or me, and neither are their expectations.
Here are some helpful tips to put your interacts with people who are blind into perspective. Remember, these are just guidelines. That said, there are no substitutes for friendliness, empathy and kindness.
Put the person first
As is true for anyone with disabilities, remember to put the person first, before the disability, to avoid negative connotations or patronizing language. For example, using the words people who are blind is better than saying blind people.
Also, talk to the person directly, and not via a family member. Just because someone cannot see doesn’t mean that they can’t speak for themselves.
Introduce yourself
Always introduce yourself by name. It isn’t possible to always recognize voices or remember them. Similarly, when leaving, announce your departure, so they know you are no longer there.
Avoid gestures
Avoid using hand signals and gestures, since pointing or waving hands will not be so interpreted. Remember to use verbal cues for direction (say to your left, rather than waving in the general direction) when interacting with people who are blind.
Do not edit your vocabulary
You need not omit words like, “See” or “Look” when interacting with people who are blind. People with visual impairments understand that these words are part of normal conversations.
Offer help
Offer help if you believe they need help to walk. Do not pull, push or drag them without warning. In fact, the easiest way is to ask them if they would like your assistance.
If they say yes, offer your arm, just above the elbow, and gently guide their hand to it. Remember, a person who is blind will prefer to hold on to your arm, rather than the other way round. Also, this way the person with the disability gets to lead.
Warn calmly
In case you see someone who is blind in a situation of harm, be calm and clear when you warn the person. Do not shout, do not panic. Use specific language to indicate the danger, and its specific location. For example, say “there is table to your left”, about two feet away, or “the door in front of you is closed”
Be careful around guide dogs
Remember, you must not pet or distract guide dog. These dogs are trained and responsible for the safety of their owners. If you distract them, you are actually putting a person at risk.
Empathy helps
While your first reaction may be one of sympathy, remember, no one wants to be pitied. Offer help, and offer to listen to their story, only if they volunteer.
Avoid any expressions of horror, pity or consternation. Remember, most people who are blind are no less capable of handling their life circumstances than those who are not.
