It's challenging for sighted individuals to fully understand the experiences of those who are blind or visually impaired. While curiosity is natural and learning more about their disability is important, some comments can be unintentionally hurtful or disrespectful. Here are nine things you should avoid saying to a blind or visually impaired person. Always approach with respect and sensitivity.
1. "Is There a Cure?"
While often well-intentioned, asking about a cure can be insensitive. Many blind or visually impaired people have adapted to their condition and live fulfilling lives without seeking a cure. Some have been blind their entire lives and don't view their condition as something that needs fixing. Constantly focusing on cures can hinder their process of acceptance and adaptation. It's crucial to respect their lived experience and not frame their condition as something inherently negative that needs to be remedied.
2. "I Feel So Sorry for You"
Pity is often unwelcome and can feel patronizing. People who are blind or visually impaired lead rich, varied lives and don't need sympathy for their condition. Saying you feel sorry for them implies their life is lesser or more challenging than it is. Blind individuals have adapted to their circumstances and often don't view their lives as something to be pitied. Recognize that blindness leads to a different lifestyle, not a diminished one. Instead of offering sympathy, engage with them as you would with anyone else, focusing on their abilities and experiences.
3. "It's Over There"
Telling someone who is blind or visually impaired that something is "over there" is unhelpful and vague. They cannot see where you are pointing, and "over there" could mean anywhere around them. Instead, provide clear, specific directions. For example, say, "It is directly in front of you," or "It is about two meters to your left." This approach helps them locate the item or destination independently without needing to guess or ask for additional help. Being precise in your directions fosters independence and respects their need for clear information.
4. "How Do You Live?"
Asking a blind or visually impaired person how they live suggests that their life is somehow less viable or more difficult than a sighted person's life. In reality, they have adapted and live their lives just like anyone else, often with some adjustments. If you're curious about how they manage daily tasks or what adaptations they find useful, ask respectfully. For instance, you might say, "What adjustments have had a positive impact on your life?" This way, you show genuine interest without implying their life is abnormal or overly challenging.
5. "Do You Need Help?"
Offering help is a kind gesture, but how you do it matters. Blind or visually impaired individuals often navigate their world with skill and independence. If you see someone genuinely struggling with a task, offering assistance is considerate. However, don't rush to ask this question immediately. Many blind people can handle tasks on their own and may not need your help. Assumptions can be frustrating and belittling. Instead, observe the situation first and then offer help if it seems necessary, just as you would with sighted individuals. Remember, autonomy is important to everyone, regardless of their vision status.
6. "Guess Who?"
Asking someone who is blind or visually impaired to guess who you are based on your voice is disrespectful and potentially stressful. Not everyone with sight loss has enhanced hearing, and even if they do, recognizing voices can still be challenging. This question puts them on the spot unnecessarily. Instead, simply introduce yourself when you enter a room or start a conversation. This courteous approach eliminates any awkwardness and shows respect for their situation.
7. "You Don’t Look Blind"
There is no specific way a blind or visually impaired person should look. Everyone is unique in their own way, and disabilities are not always visible. Saying "You don’t look blind" implies that blindness has a particular appearance and suggests that not fitting this stereotype is somehow a compliment. This statement invalidates their experience and reinforces harmful stereotypes. Disabilities are often invisible, and such remarks can be dismissive of the person's reality. Always remember that each individual’s experience with blindness is personal and varied.
8. "You Can’t See, You Don’t Need to … (Do Your Hair, Get Dressed, Wear Make-up)"
Everyone has the right to do what makes them happy and feel good about themselves. Telling someone what they should or shouldn't do based on their disability is not only inappropriate but also disrespectful. Blind or visually impaired individuals take pride in their appearance just like anyone else. They dress up, do their hair, and wear makeup because it makes them feel better. Sighted people don't see themselves every minute of the day either, yet we still take care of our appearance. The same goes for those with sight loss – their desire to look good and feel good is equally valid.
9. "Do You Ever Do … by Mistake? (Eat Something Wrong, Bump Into Things)"
Curiosity about how blind or visually impaired individuals navigate everyday tasks is natural, but asking if they frequently make mistakes can be patronizing. This question assumes they are incapable of performing certain tasks and undermines their independence. While everyone has occasional mishaps, focusing on these can make the person feel uncomfortable or insecure. People who are blind or visually impaired often adapt remarkably well to their environment and lead independent lives. Instead of highlighting potential struggles, engage in conversations that respect their abilities and achievements.
So, 9 things you shouldn’t say to people who are blind or visually impaired. We hope that by reading this blog, you’ve gained a bit more insight into phrases and questions that might come across the wrong way. Don’t let this discourage you from asking questions, showing interest, and learning more about people’s disabilities. Being considerate of a person’s feelings and staying respectful is key. Engaging with genuine curiosity and empathy can help build understanding and foster a more inclusive environment for everyone.