Can You See Me Now 14 Effective Strategies On How You Can Successfully Interact With People Who Are Blind And Visually Impaired The Average Persons Interacting With People With Disabilities ❲ORIGINAL ◆❳

If you need to get someone’s attention in a loud room, gently touch the back of their hand or shoulder while saying your name. This is less startling than a loud “HEY!” from across the room. Part 3: Breaking Awkward Myths 8. You Can Say “See” and “Look” The myth: You must avoid all visual language. The reality: Blind people use “see you later” and “look at that” all the time. It’s idiomatic, not literal. Forcing awkward phrases like “I’ll hear you later” is more offensive than helpful.

We’ve all been there. You see someone with a white cane or a guide dog at a coffee shop, and suddenly your brain freezes. Should I offer help? Will they be offended if I use the word “see”? What if I say the wrong thing? If you need to get someone’s attention in

Here’s the truth: People who are blind or visually impaired are not fragile, psychic, or angry. They are your neighbors, coworkers, and friends who simply use different tools to navigate the same world you do. The awkwardness usually comes not from malice, but from a lack of exposure. You Can Say “See” and “Look” The myth:

The average person assumes a blind person cannot cook, travel alone, or use a smartphone. They can. VoiceOver on iOS is blindingly fast. Don’t say “You’re so inspiring” for buying groceries. Say “That’s a good salsa choice” instead. Forcing awkward phrases like “I’ll hear you later”

Because the goal isn’t to “see” them the way you see everyone else. It’s to see them as your equal—which they have been all along. This guide was written with input from members of the National Federation of the Blind and low-vision occupational therapists. For more resources, visit your local Lighthouse for the Blind or simply—ask a blind person. They’ll likely appreciate the question more than you think.

Blindness is not hearing loss. Shouting doesn’t help. Speak at a normal volume and tone. (Unless the person has indicated they are DeafBlind—then follow their specific communication method.)