Blind Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts, Put Your Knowledge to the Test!

Imagine ... living in a world where you navigate through touch, sound, and instinct rather than sight. For millions of blind and visually impaired people, this is their daily reality. Blindness doesn’t mean living without ambition or capability; rather, it highlights the resilience and adaptability of individuals to overcome barriers. International Braille Day, observed on 4th January (today), honours Louis Braille, the inventor of the tactile writing system that has transformed the lives of blind individuals worldwide. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.

This event is not just about celebrating the brilliance of Braille but also about fostering understanding. For those with sight, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how we can support blind and visually impaired people in our communities, workplaces, and social circles. It’s a call to action to build a world that’s accommodating and respectful. 

Blind Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts 

Do’s

• Do introduce yourself – Say your name when you meet them; it’s polite and helps them know who they’re talking to.

• Do offer your arm – If they need guidance, let them hold your arm rather than grabbing theirs.

• Do be descriptive – Use specific directions like “The door is to your right” instead of “over there."

• Do use their name – It helps them know you’re addressing them in a group.

• Do explain changes – Let them know if there’s a new obstacle in their environment.

• Do describe visuals – If you’re watching a presentation or film together, explain key visuals briefly.

• Do give them time – Allow them to complete tasks at their own pace without rushing them.

• Do ask before helping – They may not need assistance, so always check first.

• Do respect their independence – Blind people lead full lives; don’t assume they can’t do things.

• Do communicate clearly – Speak directly to them, not through others or their guide dog.

Don’ts

• Don’t grab them – Never pull or push a blind person; always ask if they need help first.

• Don’t pet guide dogs – They’re working and should not be distracted.

• Don’t shout – Blindness doesn’t affect hearing, so speak at a normal volume.

• Don’t move things – If you must, tell them where you’ve put the item.

• Don’t assume they need help – Wait for them to ask or offer politely.

• Don’t leave them without telling them – Let them know if you’re leaving a conversation or room.

• Don’t use vague directions – Saying “over there” is unhelpful; be specific.

• Don’t pity them – Blind people are capable and don’t need sympathy; they need respect.

• Don’t exclude them – Involve them in activities and adapt as necessary.

• Don’t ignore them – Speak directly to them, even if you’re unsure how to interact.

Being mindful of these do’s and don’ts can create a more respectful and inclusive environment for blind and visually impaired individuals.

To test your knowledge and improve your etiquette skills when interacting with people who are visually-handicapped, try the quiz below. It’s a fun and insightful way to learn while reflecting on everyday scenarios.

Etiquette Quiz

1. You see a blind person waiting at a pedestrian crossing. What should you do?
   a) Take their hand and lead them across.
   b) Ask if they need help, then offer your arm if they do.
   c) Push the button and walk off.
   d) Do nothing—they’ll figure it out.

2. In a meeting, a blind colleague enters the room. How do you greet them?
   a) Shake their hand silently.
   b) Say hello, introduce yourself, and describe who is in the room.
   c) Clap your hands to get their attention.
   d) Wait until they speak first.

3. While at a dinner party, you notice a blind person struggling to find their glass. What should you do?
   a) Move the glass closer without saying anything.
   b) Say, “Your glass is to your right.”
   c) Place the glass in their hand without permission.
   d) Ignore them—they’ll manage.

4. A blind customer enters your shop. What’s the best way to assist them?
   a) Let them wander and explore on their own.
   b) Greet them, offer assistance, and describe the layout of the shop.
   c) Speak loudly and slowly.
   d) Assume they don’t need help unless they ask.

5. If you see a blind person with a guide dog, what should you avoid doing?
   a) Petting or distracting the guide dog.
   b) Asking about the dog.
   c) Talking to the blind person.
   d) Walking near them.

6. In an office setting, how should you assist a blind colleague with technology?
   a) Assume they can’t use computers and do the work for them.
   b) Ask if they use assistive software or need help with specific tasks.
   c) Install software without their knowledge.
   d) Avoid discussing technology altogether.

7. If you’re describing a space to a blind person, what’s the best approach?
   a) Use vague directions like “over there.”
   b) Be specific and use clock-face directions, e.g., “Your chair is at 2 o’clock.”
   c) Use hand signals they can’t see.
   d) Assume they’ll figure it out.

8. You meet a blind person at a social event. What’s an appropriate way to start a conversation?
   a) “What’s it like being blind?”
   b) “Hello, I’m [Your Name], it’s nice to meet you.”
   c) “Do you need help with anything?”
   d) “How do you even get around?”

9. During a group activity, a blind participant is present. What’s the best practice?
   a) Exclude them from activities that seem too visual.
   b) Explain the activity in detail and adapt it if needed.
   c) Assume they won’t be interested.
   d) Avoid mentioning their blindness.

10. If a blind person drops an item, how should you respond?
    a) Pick it up silently and hand it to them.
    b) Say, “You dropped something; may I help you?”
    c) Leave it—they’ll find it themselves.
    d) Kick it closer to them.

11. A blind coworker is in the break room. How do you let them know you’re there?
    a) Stay silent—they’ll sense your presence.
    b) Say, “Hi, it’s [Your Name], I’m here too.”
    c) Tap them on the shoulder.
    d) Wait until they ask.

12. If a blind person asks for directions, how do you give them?
    a) Use clear verbal instructions with landmarks.
    b) Point and say, “It’s over there.”
    c) Offer to walk them to their destination.
    d) Say, “I don’t know,” even if you do.

13. In a professional meeting, how should you share visual data with a blind participant?
    a) Send the data in advance in an accessible format.
    b) Ignore the visual data—they won’t need it.
    c) Explain the visual elements verbally during the meeting.
    d) a and c.

14. You notice a blind person struggling with public transport. What should you do?
    a) Watch from a distance to see if they ask for help.
    b) Offer assistance and ask how you can help.
    c) Assume they know the way and move on.
    d) Grab their arm and guide them.

15. How do you guide a blind person in a crowded area?
    a) Take their hand and pull them along.
    b) Offer your arm and describe obstacles ahead.
    c) Push people aside for them.
    d) Walk ahead and expect them to follow.

16. What should you do if a blind person accidentally walks into you?
    a) Apologise and step aside.
    b) Say nothing and move away.
    c) Say, “Watch where you’re going!”
    d) Laugh it off.

17. If a blind person asks about the food on their plate, how do you describe it?
    a) Use clock-face positions, e.g., “The meat is at 6 o’clock, and the potatoes are at 3 o’clock.”
    b) Tell them to figure it out by touch.
    c) Say, “It’s all there; just eat.”
    d) Avoid the question.

18. How should you notify a blind colleague about a schedule change?
    a) Assume they’ll hear about it.
    b) Email or call them directly with the update.
    c) Post it on a noticeboard.
    d) Tell someone else to inform them.

19. You’re introducing yourself to a blind person. What’s the right way to do it?
    a) Say your name and explain who you are.
    b) Stay silent—they don’t need to know.
    c) Shake their hand and say nothing.
    d) Wait for someone else to introduce you.

20. When guiding a blind person to a chair, how should you assist them?
    a) Place their hand on the back of the chair and describe its position.
    b) Push them into the chair gently.
    c) Tell them, “The chair is over there.”
    d) Assume they’ll find it themselves.

Answers

1: b | 2: b | 3: b | 4: b | 5: a | 6: b | 7: b | 8: b | 9: b | 10: b
11: b | 12: a | 13: d | 14: b | 15: b | 16: a | 17: a | 18: b | 19: a | 20: a

Conclusion

By observing International Braille Day and learning the correct etiquette, we take a meaningful step towards building a more inclusive society. Small actions, such as offering clear communication or thoughtful assistance, can make a world of difference. Let’s continue to educate ourselves, celebrate the achievements of blind individuals, and champion accessibility for all.

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You never know how much of a difference it could make in someone’s life.

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