Social Etiquette For Interacting With Blind People

• DO identify yourself, particularly when walking into a room.
• DON'T say, "Do you know who this is?"
• DO speak directly to the individual. Do not speak through an intermediary. Unless they are hard of hearing, they can speak for themselves.
• DO give specific directions like, "The door is five feet to your right," as opposed to saying, "The door is over there."
• DO give a clear word picture when describing things to an individual with vision loss. Include details such as color, texture, shape and landmarks.
• DO touch them on the arm or use their name when addressing them. This lets them know you are speaking to them, and not someone else in the room.
• DON'T shout when you speak. They can't see but usually hear just as well as you do.
• DON'T be afraid to use words like "blind" or "see." Their eyes may not work, but it's still, "Nice to see you."