OK YOU ARE BLIND!, but you can help sighted people too.  Here are few tips to remember:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Treat sighted people with gentleness and always remember to say "Thank You" for the assistance they give you.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Back to main page.