Can You See Me Now 14 Effective Strategies On How You Can Successfully Interact With People Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired The Average Persons Interacting With People With Disabilities -

Don’t wave your hand in front of someone’s face or ask, “Can you see this?” Vision loss is a spectrum. Some see light, some see shadows, some see nothing. Assume they cannot see your gestures. Instead of pointing, use clear, descriptive language (e.g., “The printer is three feet to your right”). Part 2: Verbal & Physical Navigation 4. Ask Before You Assist This is the most violated rule. Grabbing someone’s arm, pushing them toward a chair, or pulling their elbow is startling and dangerous. Instead, say: “Would you like some guidance?” If they say yes, offer your elbow or shoulder —not your hand. They will hold your arm just above the elbow and walk a half-step behind you.

We’ve all been there. You see someone with a white cane or a guide dog at a coffee shop, and suddenly your brain freezes. Should I offer help? Will they be offended if I use the word “see”? What if I say the wrong thing?

Here’s the truth: People who are blind or visually impaired are not fragile, psychic, or angry. They are your neighbors, coworkers, and friends who simply use different tools to navigate the same world you do. The awkwardness usually comes not from malice, but from a lack of exposure. Don’t wave your hand in front of someone’s

If you need to get someone’s attention in a loud room, gently touch the back of their hand or shoulder while saying your name. This is less startling than a loud “HEY!” from across the room. Part 3: Breaking Awkward Myths 8. You Can Say “See” and “Look” The myth: You must avoid all visual language. The reality: Blind people use “see you later” and “look at that” all the time. It’s idiomatic, not literal. Forcing awkward phrases like “I’ll hear you later” is more offensive than helpful.

The average person assumes a blind person cannot cook, travel alone, or use a smartphone. They can. VoiceOver on iOS is blindingly fast. Don’t say “You’re so inspiring” for buying groceries. Say “That’s a good salsa choice” instead. Instead of pointing, use clear, descriptive language (e

Blindness is not hearing loss. Shouting doesn’t help. Speak at a normal volume and tone. (Unless the person has indicated they are DeafBlind—then follow their specific communication method.)

By: The Average Person’s Guide to Inclusive Interaction Grabbing someone’s arm, pushing them toward a chair,

Because the goal isn’t to “see” them the way you see everyone else. It’s to see them as your equal—which they have been all along. This guide was written with input from members of the National Federation of the Blind and low-vision occupational therapists. For more resources, visit your local Lighthouse for the Blind or simply—ask a blind person. They’ll likely appreciate the question more than you think.

Don’t start with “Hey, how’s it going?” They may not recognize your voice. Instead say: “Hi, it’s Sarah from accounting. I’m standing to your left.” This simple act of naming yourself eliminates a huge source of anxiety.

This guide is for the “average person”—the one with good intentions who just wants to get it right. Below are to replace anxiety with confidence. Part 1: The Golden Rule of Interaction 1. Speak Directly, Not Through a Third Party You wouldn’t ask someone’s friend, “Does he want cream in his coffee?” So don’t do it here. Even if the person is with a companion, look at them , use their name, and speak naturally. The only exception: if they are using an interpreter (e.g., for DeafBlind communication).