OK YOU ARE BLIND!, but you can help sighted people too. Here are
few tips to remember:
- If someone is to accompany you to a destination, try to get enough information
in advance about the destination and specific landmarks eg: route directions,
specific shop names etc.
- When you invite someone into your house especially in the evenings, do
not forget to switch on the lights. Remember that sighted people come
into disadvantage when finding themselves in dark places.
- If you are using a computer, be a little patient with sighted people because
they may find it rather difficult to understand even the clearest speech synthesizer.
So explain what you are doing frequently and slowly, especially if you
are giving a demonstration.
- When you meet up with a new acquaintance, this person may feel somehow
uncomfortable because he/she does not know how to help you, take the initiative
in explaining what they can do to assist you.
- Treat sighted people with gentleness and always remember to say "Thank
You" for the assistance they give you.
- Using your white cane especially on occasions when you are alone is also
good practice, because this will help people make way for you or remove any
dangerous obstacles that may be in your way. It will always make them
more aware of your situation, more ready to help.
- If someone offers to assist you in things you can do independently and you
wish to refuse, do so in a polite manner, and always explain.
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