Many of our focus group participants strongly recommended mandatory sensitivity training for family members to teach sighted individuals how to interact with their visually impaired family members. Local organizations listed in the Section A all offer counseling services/support groups for the individual whose sight has been lost/impacted; however, less focus is placed on sensitivity training for family members and other members of the support structure for the visually impaired person.
Perhaps, the sensitivity training can include the following modules to allow for a comprehensive learning and adjustment period for all directly involved in this transition. Sensitivity training will aim to dissolve stereotypes and assumptions on both sides – family members and the visually impaired individual.
Example of a Sensitivity Training Overview
- Definition of legal blindness and visual impairment
- Eye conditions and their causes/treatments
- How to act as a sighted guide to someone who is blind or visually impaired
- Guide dog information and things you should do when encountering one
- Things to do & not do when meeting someone who is blind or visually impaired
- Exercises using total occluder and other vision loss simulators can also be included in the curriculum to enhance the learning experience
Tips for Interacting Respectfully with a Visually Impaired Person
- Always make your presence known – greet the person who may not know when you are there…and vice versa, let them know when you are exiting the space!
- Do not pet guide dogs or other animals when they are working – always ask before interacting with the dog
- Speak directly to the person who is blind not through their companion. Use the person’s name to whom you are speaking so that he/she is aware that you are speaking to them
- Pulling or steering a person is awkward and confusing – avoid grabbing their arm or dog’s harness unless asked for assistance
- Keep all walkways clear of debris
- Ensure that everything that is needed for a work-related task can be found easily