Visually Impaired: A person who is visually impaired has a decreased ability to see, even with corrective lenses, that adversely affects his visual access or interferes with processing visual information. The visual challenges an individual may have can range from not being able to see newspaper print to not being able to read print at all. Other challenges may include not being able to recognize a friend in a room until she is standing within arm's reach or until she identifies herself.
How to Interact with a Blind Person at Work
An employer or coworker may feel uncomfortable or awkward when first meeting a colleague who is visually impaired, but it is important to understand that people who are blind want others to interact with them in the same manner as they interact with sighted individuals in the workplace. Here are some tips that can facilitate positive interactions at work between visually impaired and sighted coworkers:
When meeting a blind person, wait for him to extend his hand for a handshake.
Coworkers should identify themselves by name when speaking to individuals with visual impairments.
Speak with a normal tone of voice. Do not shout.
When there are several people in a room, such as during a staff meeting, each individual should identify himself to the person who is blind.
Indicate the end of a conversation before walking away.
Feel free to use vision-oriented words such as "see," "look," and " watch."
Be specific when giving directions or descriptions. Saying, "the copy machine is located outside the break room to the left of the door," is more helpful than saying, "it's over there." Similarly, avoid using hand gestures to communicate messages.
Don't assume a blind person always needs assistance and can't do things for himself.
If an individual with vision loss needs assistance walking to a destination, a sighted coworker can offer her arm as a sighted guide. The guide shouldn't grab the person's arm and try to steer him in a certain direction.
Individuals who are blind or visually impaired may use a long white cane or dog guide. Don't interfere with the person's cane or dog guide.
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