Don't ignore the next blind person you meet

Monday, December 11, 2006

By BILL WIPPEL
GUEST COLUMNIST

At its annual convention this year, the Washington Council for the Blind gave a commendation to the DoubleTree Hotel Seattle Airport for the way the hotel accommodated the 224 delegates in attendance.

It shouldn't have been necessary. It should have been routine not only for the hotel, but also for other businesses in the Puget Sound area to accommodate the blind. Not so, according to the horror stories I've heard from WCB members.

Most people look the other way and pretend they don't see them because they don't know what to do and it feels safer to do nothing.

Here are some tips in dealing with the blind:

When you see someone who is blind or disabled, speak and relate to them as you would anyone else. Extend your hand and introduce yourself.

Most of the blind or disabled you will meet have minds that work as well as yours does.

Talk directly to them, not to a third person about them.

Don't shout at them; they are not hard of hearing.

If it looks like the person needs assistance, ask if you can help, listen to his answer and then do only what he asks you to do.

If the person is visually impaired, and you are walking with her, tell her about stairs, curbs, corners or other obstructions. The person may want to put a hand on your shoulder or arm as you are walking.

Walk at a speed that is comfortable for both of you, pausing slightly before ascending or descending.

When dining out, you may need to assist by directing the person to a chair and describing the room layout.

Save your blind friend from the embarrassment by introducing them to those at the table or in the room.

In a restaurant, ask if he would like to have you read the menu to him.

Describe the food and offer to help serve her, telling her where each food is located on the plate

These are simple ways to make the holidays and any day more inviting and friendly for the blind. Another tip: Try walking around your home with your eyes shut for five minutes. It will give a "glimpse" into the world of the blind. Caution: Have someone walk with you to guide you. Do not try it alone.

Bill Wippel is executive director of Tape Ministries NW, which records books for the blind.

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