Vision loss reduces a person’s ability to see clearly. Few people with vision loss are totally blind. Some have limited vision, such as the loss of side, peripheral or central vision. Some can see the outline of objects, while others can see the direction of light.
Tips
When interacting and communicating with someone with vision loss, remember:
Don’t assume the person cannot see you - few people with vision loss are totally blind.
Do not touch the person without permission.
When offering to guide someone with vision loss, stand on the side they direct you to and hold out your elbow. When they’ve taken it, walk at a normal pace and the person will usually walk a step behind. Announce handrails, doors (e.g., to the left, right, push/pull to open) and describe the surrounding areas.
Do not leave the person in the middle of a room. Show him or her to a chair, or guide them to a comfortable location.
If you need to leave the person, let them know you are leaving and will be back.
Identify yourself when you approach the person. Speak directly to him or her, not to his or her companion.
Don’t raise your voice. Say your name even if you know the person well, since many voices sound similar.
Give clear and precise directions. For example, “a metre to your left” is better than “over there”.
If you’re not sure how to give directions, ask the person what would be most helpful.
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to use words such as “see”, “read” or “look”. Persons with vision loss also use these words.
Do not touch or speak to service animals. They are working and have to pay attention at all times.
When giving printed information, offer to read, summarize or describe it. Later in the module, we’ll discuss alternatives to print materials that persons with disabilities can access.
Did You Know?
January 4, 2009 marked 200 years since the birth of Louis Braille.
Braille lost his sight at the age of 3 and later went on to develop a system enabling persons who are blind to read and write by means of raised dots.
Many persons who are blind continue using the Braille system throughout the world.
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