Living with sight loss presents many challenges in navigating the sighted world. Blind and visually impaired individuals often rely on assistance from sighted individuals to overcome obstacles and live life to the fullest. However, many sighted individuals are unfamiliar with how to assist those who are blind or visually impaired.

The world can be divided into two groups: the sighted majority and the blind minority. It is difficult for the blind to survive without the support of the majority. As a blind person, I feel it is important to let sighted individuals know what we need from them.

Assisting a blind person may seem tricky to someone who has never worked with a blind person before. Blind and visually impaired individuals often do things differently, such as walking, reading, writing, and interacting with others. These differences may cause concern for many sighted people unless they are educated on how to assist us.

The main difference between the blind and the sighted is the way we acquire information. Blind individuals often find it difficult to acquire information due to limited or no eyesight. Since about 85% of information is acquired through the eyes, blindness means a large proportion of information is blocked.

Blind individuals use four senses to acquire information, with hearing and touch being the most heavily relied upon. Sighted individuals can convey information to the blind through spoken words or touch. Most conversations in the sighted world begin with eye contact and a smile, but those two vital aspects are missing in most interactions with the blind. Therefore, whether at work, on the road, or in public transportation, feel free to talk to the blind and take the initiative to start the conversation with words. Blind individuals will respond well, and they have many exciting things to share with you as well. Feel free to explain what you see, such as surroundings, features, sizes of objects, notices, displays, and landmarks.

To assist a blind person, it is important to talk directly to them and not through someone else. Ask first if they need assistance and how they wish to be guided. Most blind people will take your arm or elbow, so they can walk half a step behind you and gain information about steps, etc. Do not grab or push a visually impaired person in the direction you think they want to go. Instead, give them information about how and where you are moving. Use the words “see,” “hear,” and “blind” naturally and without hesitation in conversation.

Other helpful hints include helping a blind person put one of their hands on the back of a chair, so they can judge its position for themselves. When going up or down stairs, place their hand on the door knob or stair rail for guidance. When entering a car, train, or any other form of transportation, place their hand on the door or entrance. Describe things that are happening or about to happen around you when you are with a blind person.

When entering or leaving a room, always let the blind person know, and introduce them to others, including children. Describe hazardous things around them, and in group discussions, make it clear who you are speaking to. Use orientation methods such as the clock ray method instead of “here” and “there.” Avoid discussions and meetings in places with lots of background noise.

Lastly, blind individuals do not want pity, and it is not helpful to talk about the compensations of blindness. Our senses of smell, touch, or hearing did not improve when we became blind. We rely more on them, and therefore, we may get more information through those senses.

In conclusion, assisting a blind person is not as tricky as it may seem. Blind individuals need information, and sighted individuals can convey that information through spoken words or touch. With education and understanding, we can work together to make the world a more inclusive place for all.