When you meet a blind person

Thought this info might be helpful.

Many people are uneasy when thinking about assisting a visually impaired person. The following suggestions will help you feel at ease with blind persons, and are based on thoughtful courtesies you might extend to anyone, sighted or blind.

There are many ways in which you can be helpful to a blind person in everyday situations, but always ask if the person wishes assistance. If help is needed, they'll be grateful. If not, they will thank you for asking.
Speaking upon entering a room where there is a blind person is very helpful. Identify yourself and let them know when you're leaving. Don't exit without informing them and leave them talking to thin air.
When greeting a blind person if others are present, use a name or provide some cue so the blind person can tell for whom your greeting is intended. Remember that blind people can't see when you're looking at them.
Address a blind person directly, not through someone else, and use a normal tone of voice. When giving directions to a blind person, be specific. Pointing will not help, nor will "over there." Phrases such as "do you see what I mean" or "let's look at the numbers" are a normal part of everyday conversation, so you needn't censor your conversation. Remember, too, that nods and shrugs do not take the place of words.
If the blind person chooses to accept assistance with moving through an environment, it will be easiest for him or her to hold onto your arm just above the elbow when walking. This will position you about ½ step ahead, and the individual can easily follow your movements. Pause briefly before ascending or descending steps and inform the individual as to whether they are going up or down. When providing assistance to cross the street, stay with the person until the opposite curb has been safely reached.
Avoid the temptation to pet a dog guide. The dog is a working animal responsible for leading a person who cannot see and should not be distracted or treated like a pet.
In social situations, introduce the individual. Bring him or her into the conversation. Identify and introduce others who are present.
Do not be concerned if an individual does not look directly at you. He or she may look down or slightly away from you.
Don’t avoid visually descriptive language. Making reference to colors, patterns, designs, and shapes is perfectly acceptable.
When you speak about someone with a disability, refer to the person and then to the disability. For example, refer to "a person who is blind" rather than to "a blind person."
The most important things needed when you meet blind individuals are your good will and common sense. Remember that blind people think, feel and make decisions just as you do. A blind person is an individual who has usually lost only one sense-the sense of sight. Be natural and enjoy one another.