03/02/2026
Unsure what to do when meeting someone who is blind or has low vision?
Here’s the surprising truth. Being helpful is far easier than most people think.
Start by greeting us directly. Speak to us, not only to the person beside us. This is one of the most common frustrations raised across our community and it’s also one of the simplest things to fix. A hello goes a long way.
Before jumping in to help, ask us first. Many of us navigate our day independently and are quite capable of doing only we may do it differently. A respectful
“Would you like a hand?”
gives us choice and dignity.
If we say yes, follow our lead. We know what works best for our bodies, our routines and our pace. If we say “no thank you,” it simply means we are okay in that moment. It does not mean help will never be appreciated another time.
Skip questions like “What happened?”
Instead, ask the same things you ask anyone else.
What do you enjoy?
What interests you?
What do you do for work or entertainment?
If you want to go deeper, questions like
“What are some of the biggest barriers you face?”
can open meaningful conversations about accessibility and inclusion.
For many of us, the biggest barrier is not our disability. The real barriers are the built environment, social stigma, long-standing attitudes and misconceptions about disability that still exist in society.
Here’s the powerful part.
When we get to know each other as people first, barriers shrink, knowledge increases and perspectives change.
Our abilities will all change with age. Kindness now equals kind later, when every one of us needs it.
Accessibility benefits everyone!
“Having a disability does not change who we are, it changes our interactions with the world. “- Gina Martin
Does your whole team know the best practices when communicating with, interacting with or assisting everyone who navigate life different? My workshop takes teams from uncomfortable to confident. Visit DiverseAbilities.ca to learn more about our programs.
Image description
Two stick people. One has dark glasses and a white cane. The other is smiling and waving while saying hello.
Text reads. Being helpful is easier than you think. When meeting someone who is blind or has low vision. Start with a hello and ask first.
