It is important to understand how you act when you meet a blind person:
- In conversation talk naturally. Do say "Nice to see you", blind people say it too. The words to avoid are the sentimental ones like "Oh, you poor thing” or "What a terrible affliction”.
- Before you move away, say that you are about to leave. Anyone feels foolish talking to an empty space.
- If you move anything in the home of a visually impaired person, do tell them or replace it, otherwise it may cause an accident or personal items can be 'lost' for days.
- When serving refreshments fill a cup three quarters full; that way there will be less likelihood of spillage.
- Always encourage independence where possible and practical.
- When guiding a blind person, allow them to take your arm, above the elbow, and move slightly ahead as you walk. Do talk about what is going on around you.
- To help a blind person into a chair, place their hand on the back of the chair and they can do the rest for themselves.
- When getting into a car, guide the blind person's hand on to the top of the car roof, or on the car seat, and they can then cope alone in getting into the car - just check they don't bump their head.
Visually impaired people are the same as everyone else but they cannot see. They may be outgoing, lively people or perhaps difficult and overbearing - losing one's sight does not change temperament.
Do try to be patient and appreciate the frustration that accompanies loss of sight.