Tips on Helping a Blind Person

• It's always appropriate to offer your help, but don't be surprised if a blind person would rather do it on their own.
• If you are helping and are unsure what to do, ask the person you're helping.
• Touch the blind person gently on the elbow to get their attention. Don't grab a cane or pet a guide dog (except during off hours). Even then it's best to ask.
• When walking with a blind person, let them take your arm. They will anticipate steps or turns from the motions of your body. To avoid surprises, the blind person may choose to walk a half-step behind you. Ask if you're moving too fast or slow.
• Always announce your name when you first call or meet up with a blind person. Don't expect them to recognize your voice. Let them know when you enter or leave a room, particularly if they are alone.
• Take your cue to shake hands from the blind individual. If they offer their hand, take it from there.
• Blindness is not deafness. There is no reason to shout. Also, be considerate and directly pose questions to a blind person and not to their companions. The blind person is able to answer.
• Use words like "see", "look", and "blind" naturally in conversation. You can even talk about blindness if the topic comes up and you are both comfortable with it.
• When in a restaurant, guide the blind person's hand to the back of the chair and take it for granted they can be seated without assistance. Offer to read the menu (including prices) if necessary. There are no rules, only common sense, about finding things like salt and bread when the meal arrives. If the blind person offers to pick up the check, it's okay to spar a little out of politeness, but let him buy your meal.
• Remember to use common sense and sensitivity and take it from there when dealing with a blind person.