I'm not a believer in long lists of “do”s and “dont”s because you'll invariably forget them, so here is my #1 recommendation.

My biggest piece of advice would be to remember that the person is not defined by their blindness—they're just a person, one of whose characteristics is blindness. They probably have lots of interests and hobbies. Good luck.

- treat them like an adult
- that’s it

Don't assume they need help with everything. Ask before just touching to guide them. Treat them as if they are sighted. It's ok to ask if they've "seen" a movie or a tv show.

Treat them like an adult, and not like an invalid. It's OK to use normal language around them, like did you see the latest GoT or something like that. This is not bad. People go so far out of their way to avoid words like blind, and even visually impaired in some cases that they come up with the oddest phrases. The thing is, all that does it draws a firm hard line in the sand separating them from us, making us more outcast from society. At the end of the day, all we really want is for people to realize we're trying to do the same things as they are, find a good career, be happy, start a family, live our lives. We do things differently because we have to, but don't let that put you off.

First of, have fun exploring the unfamiliar, and turn it into familiar ground (that's how relationships and dates work, no? ;P ) As with any person, they'll have preferences -- things they like, things they dislike, but most of them won't be related to their disability. I'm legally deafblind and thus very touchy. Constantly holding hands, snuggling up -- it's my way of sideways glancing at my GF. But other people might be different there. Just stay open-minded and don't be afraid to talk, ask questions.

And don't get freaked out if they do seemingly crazy stuff. I crossed the alps on foot for example. Many people accused my parents of being unresponsible, letting me do that. But we just lack one (well, in my case two) sensory input sources -- this alters the way we do some things, but we're still quite normal people with flaws and talents. But you'll find that out on your own, believe me. Just enjoy yourself.

I’ve often seen blind people only be able to Cary a conversation if it’s about blindness. So if this is happening, push for general discussion topics.

Keep in mind that touching faces is something that most blind people think it’s weird. Personally, I would rather touch boobs... With permission of course.

I know this post is a bit old but I want to share my experience.

My girlfriend is blind, we have been dating for a year. I have learned alot since we started dating so maybe I have a little bit to share.

Obviously everyone is different, but this is what seems to work for us.

I do my best to position myself as her companion and not her care taker.

The little things are important. If a cashier holds out a receipt, dont grab it for her, notify her that its there. She will tell you if she would like you to grab it.

If someone asks if she needs help, do not answer for her. You are there to help her, WHEN SHE ASKS.

Understand that when you are walking somewhere with her that she is unfamiliar with, she is somewhat trapped with you. Respect that in that situation she has placed alot of trust in you and given you control, do not take advantage of that control. We have gotten into minor arguments while out and about and it is not a pleasant experience to be unable to get away. Along those lines, I ask that the blind partner respect that they gain alot of power over a person who has surrendered their own autonomy in order to not impose.

I'll admit it can be tough to date a blind person at times, its important to communicate that to your partner. Dont burn yourself out.

Just treat her with respect. If you like her and she likes you and you both think it will work, go for it. It's a scary thing to start, but it quickly becomes normal, and really not that much different then dating a sighted person.

Obviously this is all from the perspective of the sighted partner in the relationship. If I got anything very wrong I'm sorry. I'm still learning everyday about how to date a blind person.

Don't mind body language. I can't see it and I have just a vauge idea of how to perform it. I'm legally blind my whole life and for me it's litterairy memorizing how to gesture our have a subtle facial expression. I also pinch my eyes and knit my brows if I want to focus more. So not an emotoin ore opinion about you. I only try to see you the best I can.

Treat them like a normal person but be kind and patient if they have trouble with something like walking at night.

Don't go to a movie. Basically, it's the same as dating a sighted person but you can tell them how physically attractive you are.