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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How can I assist a family member who is blind?

    My 15 year old cousin who is blind will be moving in with us next week. She has zero ability to see and uses a white can to guide herself. How else can the family help her? What things should we keep in mind?
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    • Jorge Lopez
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  • Jorge Lopez

    Psychologist

    Website: www.jlcounsellingservice.comJorge Lopez is a fully registered Psychologist and an accredited Medicare provider, with nearly 20 years experience in providing counselling and support within private, … View Profile

    Thank you for asking this question - Obviously it shows your interest in assisting your cousin with making her visit an enjoyable experience. I guess there are three basic areas I would like to suggest you keep in mind: 1. The mobility part, 2. The daily activities part and 3. The social part.  
    1. With regard to mobility I would suggest that you orientate your cousin to the layout of your house, her bedroom, toilet, bathroom, etc., I would also suggest that you become more acquainted with sighted guide techniques (I believe your cousin would be able to assist you with that, or you may be able to find out about it on the web or through one of the agencies that provide mobility and/or daily living activities services for vision impaired persons). Instead of pointing to things tell her if an object or place is to her right, left, in front, etc. (or you could describe directions by relating them to points on a clock face). 2. With regard to the daily activities it is important that you ask her what areas she needs assistance with and, don't assume, always ask. Don't shift things around while she is visiting you, it is important that her mental picture of your place is stable, this will assist her in finding things by herself. 3. The social aspects need to be considered. Let her know if your are entering or leaving the room she is in, Always ask friends to introduce themselves by name. If blindness is her only impairment, talk to her normally - don't slow down your speech or raise your voice, she is not deaf. When you go to a restaurant or shop ask your cousin if she wishes to use your arm as a guide (again, sighted guide techniques).  Encourage friends, family, waiters, shop staff, etc. to speak directly to your cousin rather than to you. Finaly don't assume: just ask and she will tell you what she needs. It is best not to assume, just use a simple common sense and courtesy and you should enjoy a great time with her. I hope this proves helpful for you both!!

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