Kartunet - Visually impaired individuals come from very diverse backgrounds. In this modern era, visual impairment is not an obstacle to achieving one's dreams. Many of them successfully work as teachers, lawyers, telephone operators, entrepreneurs, writers, computer experts (programmers), and even social workers. With the help of white canes and screen reader technology, they are able to move around and work independently.
However, there are times when they find themselves in entirely new environments—such as during orientation at a new workplace, accessing public facilities, or using public transportation—where they would greatly appreciate your assistance and guidance. Unfortunately, many members of the public and public service staff, despite their good intentions, often provide help in ways that are incorrect, awkward, or even dangerous.
Offering assistance to visually impaired individuals is not an act of charity, but rather a tangible manifestation of providing social accessibility within the community. To ensure your good intentions are conveyed safely and comfortably, here are the basic guidelines and etiquette for being an effective sighted guide.
1. Etiquette for Offering Assistance and the Correct Way to Guide
The first step before offering help is to always ask first. Never pull their cane, push their shoulder from behind, or suddenly grab their hand. Simply greet them kindly, gently touch the back of their hand so they know you're speaking to them, then offer assistance, "May I help you find your way?"
If they accept your help, apply the correct sighted guide technique. Let the visually impaired person hold your arm, not the other way around. Guide their hand to grasp your arm just above the elbow, with their thumb on the outside and the other four fingers on the inside. In this position, they will walk half a step behind you and can easily feel and follow your every movement—when you turn, stop, or step up and down.
2. Steps for Navigating Doors
Navigating doors can be challenging if not communicated properly, especially if the door has a self-closing mechanism (door closer). When approaching a door, inform the visually impaired person whether the door pulls towards you or pushes away.
If the door hinge is on the side of the arm the visually impaired person is holding, ask them to switch to your other arm. As you open the door, guide their free hand (the hand not holding your arm) to touch the door handle or knob. This way, they can hold the door open to prevent it from hitting them and also close the door independently after you both have passed through.
3. The Proper Way to Guide to a Seat
A common and critical mistake in public facilities and job interview waiting rooms is to turn the visually impaired person's body and push their shoulder from behind to force them to sit. This is highly impolite and can cause them to lose their sense of balance and orientation.
The correct method is very simple. Guide the visually impaired person close to the chair. Then, take their hand and place it on the backrest or the seat of the chair. Once they touch the chair, they will be able to gauge its height, position their body, and sit down safely and gracefully without needing to be pushed.
Building Inclusion Through Disability Sensitizing
For companies or government agencies that have recently hired visually impaired employees, understanding the techniques above is a crucial aspect of providing "reasonable accommodation." Companies are highly encouraged to organize Disability Sensitizing Sessions for general employees.
In these sessions, employees can simulate being blindfolded and directly practice what it feels like to be guided and to guide a visually impaired person using the sighted guide technique, navigating doors, and sitting in a chair. This type of education has proven effective in easing communication awkwardness, eliminating stigma, and creating a safe and inclusive work environment.
In conclusion, the independence of visually impaired individuals and assistance from the community are two complementary aspects. By understanding the proper etiquette and methods of guidance, we not only ensure their physical safety but also respect their dignity and human rights as fellow citizens in public spaces. (DPM)
References:
- Dimas P. Muharam / BEAT Indonesia. Guide to Assisting and Interacting with Visually Impaired Individuals.
- Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Blind Association (DPP Pertuni). Guide to Recruitment & Placement of Visually Impaired Workers.
- Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas & AIPJ2 (2021). Monitoring the Fulfillment of Disability Rights.