Simple Ways to Help the Blind and Visually-Impaired

For most, it’s uncomfortable to be around people different from yourself. That’s what prompted me to share some simple ways to help a blind person. I’m taking out the guesswork for you. Plus, I needed to think about some of this before I go to an elementary school to speak to a couple of classes next month.

We’re all different. not all of these will work on 100% of the visually impaired population you might encounter.

I am blessed to have great friends who not only treat me normal, but forget I can’t see. I love it when they forget and wave to me. Maybe all you nice guys might still learn a trick or two. We’re never too young to learn.

1. Speak normal. I can’t see but I can hear so no need to raise your voice. Ask my grandkids how well I hear their whispers in the other room.

2. Avoid using the words “here” and “there.” Nouns tell me where to find what I’m looking for, unless you prefer sending me on a scavenger hunt.

3. Refer to objects by size, shape, texture, and their purpose, rather than color. Although, with practice, I get pretty good at memorizing that too.

4.  Say yes or no instead of shaking your head. Unless, of course, you have rocks in your head to make noise.

5. Leave chairs pushed in. My shins and knees will thank you.

6. Ask how can I help? The eye is a complex organ and we’re all different. Assuming can get you in trouble.

7. Lead by placing the blind or visually impaired’s hand directly above your elbow. Placing your hand on my elbow only pushes me where I can’t see. I’m not a good guide dog.

8. Walk at your normal pace when guiding, unless they have a physical impairment as well. I will walk your speed. Go pace-setter.

9. Please address me by name in crowds. I am clueless as to how many people are around me, and eavesdropping for clues to see if what your saying is meant for me, isn’t lady-like.

10. Always put things back where you found them. I work hard to memorize where things belong. Usually, I’m alone when I discover them MIA.

11. Ignore some of my face expressions. I concentrate to figure out my environment and can easily be misunderstood.

12. Small is always better for me to navigate, whether restroom stalls or motel rooms. I’m not physically impaired, but others you meet might be.

13. If you’re a gentlman, then by all means, be one. Otherwise, it’s not necessary to offer me a chair because I can’t see. Sitting when I didn’t want to in order to prevent offense has added pounds to my thighs.

14. Please leave doors all the way open or all the way closed. This prevents many knots from forming. Mucho gracias.

15. Keeping objects off the floor is helpful, although I know how to do the puppy shuffle.

16. Double-check all cabinet doors and drawers, dishwashers and microwave doors to ensure they’re not open to poke someone’s eye out.

17. Trimmed branches near walkways are nice, but a luxury.

18. Touch any cup, plate, or item you’re handing me to my hand please. I’m not always listening for its landing nearby.

19. Going for a ride? It’s easiest to place my hand on the door handle and let me open the door myself.  If you’re a gentleman desiring to open the door, please place my hand on the door’s sharp corner edge. From there, I can find the seat and close the door. Thanks.

20. Use descriptive words when telling stories. Describe how far apart your hands are when you get carried away telling how big that fish is.

Several of these ideas came from my friends, rather than formal training.

Which one did you find most helpful? How many do you already do?

Please share in the comments, and if you like this, please share on your social media as well.

Feel free to browse around for more encouragement while you’re here.

© 2016, Jena Fellers. All rights reserved.