Courtesy Rules about Blindness

The following are some simple and straightforward pointers which encourage people to feel comfortable with people who are blind or low vision:

• I’m an ordinary person who just happens to be blind or have low vision.
• If you think I might need help, just ask me.
• You don’t need to raise your voice; I can hear you just fine.
• Talk to me directly, not through someone else.  Don’t ask my friend, ‘does she want cream with her coffee?’
• I may use a long white cane or a guide dog to walk independently.  Or, I may ask to take your arm.  Let me decide.  Please do not just grab my arm.
• I would like to know who is in the room with me.  Please speak to me when you enter and introduce me to the others (including children).
• A partially opened door to a cabinet, car, room, or appliance can be a hazard to me.  Please close doors or let me know if they are partially opened.
• I have no trouble with ordinary table skills.  I will ask if I need assistance.  Please let me know verbally if you are passing an item to me.
• No need to avoid words like “see.”  I use them, too.  I’m always glad to “see” you and I enjoy “watching” television.
• I don’t want pity.  Please don’t talk about the “wonderful compensations” of blindness.  My senses didn’t improve, I’ve learned to rely on them differently.
• If I am your guest, please show me around.  I’d like to know the location of different areas and rooms, including the bathroom.
• I will discuss blindness with you and am happy to answer questions if you’re curious, but it’s an old story to me.  I have as many other interests as you do.
• It’s okay to use the word blind because it is okay to be blind!