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Blind and Visually Impaired Community

Full History - 2019 - 06 - 18 - ID#c21cx9
16
Quick question about how to be helpful in a large conference center (self.Blind)
submitted by _LittleBIt
I’m at work right now and there is an event going on with a lot of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

I have seen a few people walking with canes or seeing eye dogs and I saw a gentleman who was obviously lost. I helped lead him back to where he was trying to go.

I want to be as helpful, kind, inclusive and respectful as possible today.

So for future reference, if I saw someone who is blind and obviously lost (he was headed for the employee only area) would it be okay to say “excuse me, my name is ‘Little Bit’ May I help you find something” and if they say yes could I ask if they would prefer to hold my arm or for me to walk beside them? I have also been making sure to walk around frequently and look for any loose items on the floor. How else can I be helpful?

This conference center is large and confusing and many of the attendees have never been here before. I just want to ensure I’m being the best host possible. I would love any tips or constructive criticism or even corrections on my terminology.

Thanks everyone
kazcar 9 points 4y ago
Sounds like you are doing a great job. Always ask if someone requires assistance and if so how you can best assist them. As far as terminology goes- don’t overthink it! It’s okay to use phrases like “I see what you mean” or “what are you looking for?”. I would also familiarise yourself with where the bathroom/eating facilities are so that you can orient people to them as well as guide dog toileting areas and water bowls should they be required.
_LittleBIt [OP] 3 points 4y ago
Oh great point about the dogs! I hadn’t thought of that! I will make sure there is a designated place.
CloudyBeep 7 points 4y ago
What you're doing sounds very good. I have no tips to offer since you seem to understand that everyone is different so you should ask how best to help them.
_LittleBIt [OP] 2 points 4y ago
Thank you!
emwells 2 points 4y ago
I learned from my uncle the best way to lead someone blind or visually impaired is for them to grab your elbow, if they want you to guide them.
_LittleBIt [OP] 3 points 4y ago
Thank you! That’s what I ended up doing all day and many people seemed very appreciative! Thank you all for your help!
sarahluvsjoy 2 points 4y ago
Out of curiosity, what conference are you at?
_LittleBIt [OP] 2 points 4y ago
Sent you a PM
BlueRock956 1 points 4y ago
Hi, I’m guessing that you work at a hotel. We often have conferences, and we get to explore new environments. It’s alright to ask someone if they need assistance, if they say yes, it would be better for them to inform you if they just need directions on how to get somewhere or if you can guide them somewhere. As per guidance, they may prefer to do sighted guide, where they’d be grabbing you by the elbow, or they may rather walk by your side using their guide dog or cane.
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