How to Guide Someone Who Is Blind or Visually Impaired

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: If you see a stranger with a white cane or a guide dog

   It would be good for you to approach them, introduce yourself and ask if you can help them with anything.
   
   If they say yes and tell you the problem, try to help as efficiently as possible.
   
   If they say no, then just believe it and go on your way.
2. 2

   Step 2: it is very likely that he is visually impaired.

   When giving directions, you might need to use a little calculations.
   
   For example, say, "You will turn left in about 20 feet (6.1 m), and it is the first doorway on your left." They should be confident enough in finding it with their cane from there. , This will allow them to find your elbow.
   
   They will grip you right above your elbow.
   
   Go to the arm which does not have the cane or their guide dog.
   
   Before you start walking, ensure that the person is a half-step behind you and slightly to your side.
   
   Choose a pace that would be comfortable.
   
   Be on the lookout for any obstacles on the path of his feet, as well as to the side or his head height.
   
   Let him know in good time to avoid tripping. , Motion him to walk behind by moving your arm near the middle of your back.
   
   Ensure he is still holding on to your arm as he steps behind you.
   
   Once done with the passage, bring your arm to its usual place to regain the usual position at your side. , Pause at the bottom to allow them to find the first step.
   
   Pause at the top to let them know that is the last step.
   
   If needed, switch sides with them ensure that he is on the side of the handrail. , This is very important to the blind person, because if you lose contact with him, he might think you are leaving him.
   
   The easiest way is for you to stay still, and then have him hold on to your former guiding arm with both hands.
   
   One arm should move to your other hand before letting the former hand go, to settle into the new position on your other side. , Help by opening the door for them, and if necessary, holding it open for them.
   
   If they are more experienced, they will put their hand up to hold the door open for themselves.
   
   While entering or exiting a room, you want the visually impaired person to be on the side of the door with the hinges.
   
   If the person is on the hinged side, once you pass through the doorway, he should be able to ease it closed using his free hand. , However, it is not very necessary.
   
   They can figure it out by sensing your body movements. , Tell them what kind of seat it is (chair with wheels, has arms, a back). ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Ask if they would like you to take them there or if they would like directions.

4. 4

   Step 4: If they would like you to guide them there

5. 5

   Step 5: touch your arm to their arm.

6. 6

   Step 6: If navigating narrow spaces

7. 7

   Step 7: let the person know that there is a narrow space ahead.

8. 8

   Step 8: If you come to stairs

9. 9

   Step 9: tell them whether the stairs are going up or down.

10. 10

    Step 10: If you need to change arms

11. 11

    Step 11: never let the blind person lose contact with you.

12. 12

    Step 12: Coming to a doorway

13. 13

    Step 13: explain to them which direction the door opens: towards you or away from you and on your right or left.

14. 14

    Step 14: Tell them whether you are turning left or right.

15. 15

    Step 15: When taking a seat

16. 16

    Step 16: place their hand on the back of the chair.

17. 17

    Step 17: Before you leave them

18. 18

    Step 18: ask if there's anything else you can help them with.

Detailed Guide

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