Kartunet - In our previous article, we discussed the basics of being a sighted guide for visually impaired individuals, covering everything from the correct way to link arms, techniques for passing through doors, to politely showing someone to a seat. However, inclusive interaction in public spaces doesn't stop at these basic guidelines.
Often, the biggest challenge for the general public when interacting with visually impaired individuals isn't the physical guiding method, but rather the awkwardness in communication. Additionally, there are certain terrains that require special techniques, such as narrow corridors and stairs, where a small mistake can be fatal. Let's complete our understanding with the following advanced interaction guidelines.
1. Etiquette for Meeting, Greeting, and Communicating
Communication is the key to equitable interaction. People often feel awkward or overly cautious when speaking with visually impaired individuals. However, the basic etiquette is very simple:
- Greet and introduce yourself: When approaching, greet them in a normal voice and state your name. Don't play guessing games with your voice like, "Guess who this is?".
- Speak directly to them: If a visually impaired person is with their guide, continue to speak and look directly at the visually impaired person's face, rather than speaking to their guide (the third party) as if the visually impaired person isn't there.
- Use normal vocabulary: Don't feel awkward using common visual words like "see," "watch," or "read." Visually impaired individuals also use these words in their daily context.
- Use clear directional cues: Avoid using ambiguous demonstrative pronouns like "over there," "right there," or "over here." Use precise directions, for example, "three steps to your right" or "directly in front of you, two meters away."
- Inform them when you leave: Never leave a visually impaired person silently. Always say goodbye or inform them if you need to leave, so they don't get confused or talk to themselves.
2. Fatal Guiding Mistakes (Don't Do This!)
Well-intentioned actions executed incorrectly can actually endanger visually impaired individuals. Here are some strict prohibitions that a guide must avoid:
- Never pull their cane: A white cane is both the "eyes" and an extension of a visually impaired person's sense of touch. Pulling or holding their cane is equivalent to snatching away their primary navigation tool.
- Never push from behind: Pushing a visually impaired person's back or shoulder to direct them is very dangerous as it can cause them to lose their balance.
- Never pull their hand or clothing: Suddenly pulling a visually impaired person's hand, sleeve, or clothing is impolite and makes them feel dragged. Remember, let the visually impaired person hold your arm above the elbow, not the other way around.
3. Technique for Navigating Narrow Spaces or Gaps
When you are guiding a visually impaired person and need to pass through a small corridor, a narrow path, or a crowd of people that doesn't allow for walking side-by-side, you must change your position.
How: Move the arm that the visually impaired person is holding behind your back. Sensing the movement of your arm shifting backward, the visually impaired person will automatically respond by walking directly behind you (in single file). Once the narrow gap has been successfully navigated, return your arm to its original position at your side so they can resume walking alongside you.
4. Safe Guide for Navigating Stairs or Steps
Navigating stairs requires good communication between the guide and the visually impaired person. Apply the following steps:
- Pause briefly just before the first step.
- Inform them whether the stairs go up or down.
- If the stairs have a handrail, adjust your position if necessary so the visually impaired person can hold the handrail for extra safety.
- Begin walking only when they are ready. You should walk one step ahead of the visually impaired person.
- When the steps end, pause briefly to inform them that the stairs are finished and the path is flat again.
Conclusion
Becoming an inclusive society starts with the willingness to learn and overcome awkwardness. By practicing appropriate communication etiquette, avoiding guiding mistakes, and mastering techniques for navigating various terrains, we contribute to creating public spaces that are safe, comfortable, aware, and friendly for people with disabilities.
References:
- Dimas P. Muharam / BEAT Indonesia. Guide to Assisting and Interacting with the Visually Impaired.
- Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Blind Association (DPP Pertuni). Guide to Recruitment & Placement of Visually Impaired Workers.