Hints and tips to help someone with a sight problem
At Pure Homecare, we have very experienced Caregivers who are specially trained to care for people who have problems with their sight. Over the years, we have built up a wealth of knowledge to understand how best to look after our Clients with challenging visibility.
Below is some general advice about how to help and guide someone with a sight problem. However, please remember that everyone is different and has personal individual preferences about how they would prefer to be helped.
Here’s a few basic tips when in the company of someone who is visually impaired:
- It is important not to make assumptions about what a person can and can’t see. Just because someone uses a white cane or has a guide dog doesn’t mean that they have no sight. Only 4% of people who are registered blind have no sight at all.
- Remember to ask first if someone needs help and do not be afraid to do so.
- Introduce yourself by name and say who you are.
- Refer to the person by name where possible, so that they know you are talking to them.
- Speak clearly and give clear instructions, however be mindful of being overly forceful.
- Check which side the person you are guiding would like to stand.
- Allow the person time to take your arm securely before you move.
- Keep your guiding arm still and as relaxed as possible.
- Match the pace of the person you are guiding and do not try to push or pull them.
- Allow adequate room around any obstacles and give instructions that they are near a potential obstacle.
- If there is a change in ground surface or a step, make sure that you inform the person and take time for them to adjust.
- Explain any loud noises that might occur.
- Bear in mind that older people or people with other disabilities may need additional considerations.
- If a person has a white cane with red bands or a guide dog with a red and white harness, it means that they have hearing loss as well as sight loss.
If you, a family member or friend has problems with sight and would like to receive extra care in the home and with your day to day living, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 0116 254 9450 or at info@purehomecare.co.uk.
