I will remember that my attitudes toward blindness are vitally important in establishing healthy relationships.

I will use the words, LOOK, SEE, BLIND, etc. Avoidance of these words will only make blind people self-conscious.

I will allow them the dignity of speaking for themselves, and unless they have a severe hearing loss, discourage other people from talking to them through me.

I will identify myself when entering a room or in public, so that I do not give them the insecurity of wondering who I am.

I will tell them when I leave their presence, so that I do not subject them to the embarrassment of talking to the air. I will always take care to help them know who is within speaking range.

I will offer my elbow for assistance in walking, staying about a step ahead so that they can anticipate my movements.

I will expect the blind person I am guiding to catch the door as we pass through.

I will place their hand on a door handle, back or arm of a chair for orientation.

I will caution them about ascending or descending stairs, curbs or obstacles in their path. Even though they may have a cane or dog guide, a blind person may appreciate an offer of assistance in crossing busy streets.

I will help keep them informed and aware of their present surroundings.

I will assist them at the dining table. Some appreciate clock-wise identification of food, while others master this art by gently probing with the fork.

I will allow them the personal pride of handling their own money. A blind person can tell the difference in coins by touch, and identify paper money by various methods of folding.

I will look directly at them when I speak, so that they can follow my voice with their eyes, and face me.

This message is brought to you by Blindskills, Inc.
Publishers of DIALOGUE: A World of Ideas for Visually Impaired People of All Ages

For more information contact:

Blindskills, Inc.
P.O. Box 5181
Salem, OR 97304-0181

Phone: (800)860-4224 or (503)581-4224
Fax: (503) 581-0178

E-Mail: blindskl@teleport.com