What is the best method to approach a blind or visually impaired person to offer assistance?
Often, when people encounter a person who is blind or visually impaired, they want to offer assistance, but aren’t sure how to approach the person. It is alright to ask the blind person if they need assistance. If they do need assistance, just ask how you may assist them. If they do not need assistance, don’t take it personally. Many blind and/or visually impaired people are quite proficient with their skills. Keep in mind that the majority of blind people have some small degree of usable vision. Few people are totally blind. When you encounter someone with a dog guide, don’t assume the dog knows exactly what to do. The dog only understands some basic commands that are given by its handler. Don’t speak to the dog or distract it in any way. However, it is just fine to ask the person if they need assistance.
