Tips for Communication with visually impaired
The visually impaired may have different degrees of visual impairment. So it is necessary to know their specific abilities.
- Like the sighted, each of the visually impaired has his/her merits, demerits and unique personality.
- Most of the visually impaired are intellectually normal.
- When talking to the visually impaired, do not raise your voice or ask a third party to explain what you have just said.
- It is not necessary to deliberately avoid using words such as “visually impaired” and “blind”.
- Do not assume that people with visual impairment have poor knowledge.
- When talking with the visually impaired, introduce yourself first.
- When ending the conversation, let the visually impaired person know that you are leaving so that he/she is not left talking to the air.
- Do not show your pity while talking to the visually impaired.
- Do not utter your surprise when seeing the visually impaired finish some everyday tasks (e.g., shopping) skilfully.
- When guiding the visually impaired, do not pull or push them. Please refer to the Sighted Guide Techniques for how to guide them correctly and safely.
- When dining, use the clock localization method to tell them what food is on the table and where the tableware is; do not fill the cup to the brim.
- When helping the visually impaired take their seat, place their hand on the back or arm of the chair and let them sit down by themselves.
- When people with visual impairment are in a room, do not keep the door ajar. Otherwise they may bump into it and get hurt.
- Do not move their belongings freely. After moving their belongings, do tell them about the new location.
- Keep the passage clear. Otherwise they may stumble.
