Communicating Effectively with Blind Individuals: A Guide

Blind people move through society and live happy lives. You'll find that blind people, after minimum accommodation, fit into the world around us with few problems.

Things You'll Need

• Braille Devices
• Computer Screen Magnifier
• Computer Screen Reader
• Talking Calculators
• Talking Keyboard
• Talking Clocks
• Talking Watches
• Mouse Emulators
• Braille Software
• Magnification Software
• Speech Recognition Software

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Instructions

• 1

  Relax and smile. There's no reason to be nervous.

• 2

  Address a blind person directly.

• 3

  Remember there's no need to raise your voice.

• 4

  Identify yourself.

• 5

  Include a blind person in any ongoing conversation.

• 6

  Allow a blind person to handle a child's natural curiosity in his or her own way.

• 7

  Ask before assuming a blind person needs help.

• 8

  Ask if a blind person would like a description of surroundings if you're together in a space unfamiliar to the blind person.

• 9

  Remember that a blind person is not visually distracted. Pay attention to your conversation and inform him or her directly if something occurs to distract you.

• 10

  Watch a blind person's reactions. If you sense confusion, a discreet offer to help might be welcome.

• 11

  Respect a blind person's cane. Leave it alone and within the person's reach; it is vital to security and the ability to move.

• 12

  Remember a guide dog is not a pet. While the guide dog accompanies the blind person, you should allow it to devote its attention to that person.

• 13

  Tell a blind person you are departing when you leave his or her presence.