Practical Hacks From the Accessibility Playbook

Seven years in the making, the Travelability Accessibility Playbook, created in partnership with Destinations International, is an end-to-end toolkit to equip destination organizations on their accessibility journey, enabling them to better welcome and accommodate people with disabilities within their destination. 

Blind and Low Vision Do’s and Don’ts: A Lesson from the Playbook

DO’S:

• Ask Before Offering Assistance:

Always ask if a blind person needs help before providing assistance. Respect their autonomy and independence.

• Identify Yourself: When approaching a blind person, introduce yourself and let them know that you are there to assist if needed. This helps establish trust and facilitates communication.

• Communicate Clearly: Use clear and descriptive language when providing information or giving directions. Be specific and avoid vague or ambiguous terms.

• Offer Assistance: If a blind person requests assistance, offer your help willingly and respectfully. Be patient and help without taking over or assuming control.

• Guide Properly: If guiding a blind person, offer your arm for them to hold onto, and

walk slightly ahead while describing the surroundings and any obstacles. Allow them

to maintain their own pace and follow their Lead.

• Respect Personal Space: Be mindful of a blind person’s personal space and avoid

touching them without permission. Offer verbal cues instead of physical guidance whenever possible.

• Be Patient: Allow extra time for blind individuals to complete tasks or navigate unfamiliar environments. Be patient and understanding of any challenges they may Encounter.

• Use Descriptive Language: When describing visual information, use descriptive language to convey details about colors, shapes, sizes, and spatial relationships. Paint a vivid picture with your words.

DON’TS:

• Assume Help is Needed: Don’t assume that a blind person needs help or cannot perform certain tasks independently. Always offer assistance respectfully and allow them to decline if they prefer.

• Use Patronizing Language: Avoid using patronizing language. Treat them with the same level of respect and dignity as you would anyone else.

• Touch Without Permission: Never touch or grab a blind person without their consent, even if your intention is to assist. Always ask before providing physical guidance or assistance.

• Rush or Pressure: Avoid rushing or pressuring a blind person to move quickly or complete tasks faster than they are comfortable with. Allow them to set the pace and respect their need for extra time.

• Make Assumptions: Don’t make assumptions about a blind person’s abilities, interests, or  references based on their disability. Treat them as individuals with unique strengths and experiences.
• Leave Without Offering Assistance: If you notice a blind person struggling or appearing in need of assistance, don’t ignore them or walk away. Offer your help politely and respectfully.