Don't Avoid the Words
When talking with a blind person, we grow anxious about using words like "see," "look," "blind," "blindness." If we slip and use them, we lose our train of thought and start apologizing. The truth is, a blind person uses the word "blind" as naturally as any other word, and uses the verb "see" to describe their own particular way of perceiving—through sound, touch, and feel.
So speak without hesitation. You can ask a blind person, "Would you like to see this model?" and place the object in their hands.
What is thoughtless, however, is to ask: "You're blind? Completely? Oh, that must be terrible! Were you born that way? Was it an accident?" Just as insensitive is muttering within earshot, "I can't imagine how awful it must be not to see"—your blind companion will hear you, and you'll have created an awkward moment.
When You Say Hello
On the street, with traffic noise, or in a carpeted room, a blind person sometimes cannot tell if you're still there. They may end up talking to empty air. After a while, they'll realize—and it won't feel good. So always let them know when you're leaving, and again when you return.
Remember too that a blind person needs a spoken response. A smile, however warm, or a nod, means nothing.
Don't Say "Over There"
Never say "there's a chair over there" while pointing a finger. Visual directions are useless to someone who cannot see. Instead, be specific: "There's a chair directly in front of you," or "About thirty feet ahead of you, on your left, there's a scooter against the wall." At table, say: "Your glass is to your left, right in front of you," or "The ashtray is beside your right hand."
No Guessing Games
If you encounter a blind person who doesn't recognize you by your voice alone, introduce yourself: "Good morning, Mr. X, it's Y." Add a detail if it helps: "We met on [date], at [place]."
Helping Them to a Seat
Sometimes two or three people fuss over getting a blind person seated. They push, turn, shift them about—and finally plunk them down in a chair.
It's so much simpler: take their hand, place it on the back of the chair, and say, "Here's a chair. This is the backrest." At once they'll understand the seat's position and sit comfortably. Or guide their hand to an armrest and say, "The armchair is to your right."
Walking With Them
Don't hesitate to offer a blind person your arm on the street—though offering is not the same as insisting.
Say something like: "I'm heading to the station. Would it help if we walked part of the way together?"
If they accept, give them your arm and go on. If they decline, don't be offended. Many blind people value their independence more than convenience.
- (from Pas cela, ceci by H. Van Dyck - Ed. Van Geerstraat 14, 2000 Antwerp, B)