Sighted guide technique is a crucial, yet often misunderstood, skill. Whether you’re a friend, a family member, a volunteer, or simply someone who wants to be more helpful in everyday encounters, knowing how to effectively and respectfully guide someone who is blind or has low vision makes all the difference.

This article offers both basic and advanced techniques to help sighted individuals become more confident and thoughtful guides. Proper guiding is not about taking control—it’s about partnership, communication, and supporting autonomy. The goal is simple: make navigation safer, more comfortable, and more dignified for the person you’re helping.

Building Trust and Communication

Introduce Yourself

When approaching someone who is blind or has low vision, the first step is always verbal: say your name. For someone who may not be able to identify you visually, your voice becomes your identity. A simple “Hi, I’m Lisa” builds immediate trust and clarity.

Seek Consent Before Assisting

It might seem kind to jump in and help, but always ask first. Saying something like, “Would you like some assistance?” respects the person’s independence and allows them to choose whether they need help. A “no” shouldn’t be taken personally—circumstances change and the same person might accept help another time.

Inquire About Preferred Assistance Methods

Once someone says “yes,” don’t assume what they need. Ask, “How can I best assist you?” Some may prefer to take your arm; others may need verbal directions. Trust that the person knows what works best for them.

Use Clear and Specific Language

Avoid vague phrases like “over there” or “watch out!” Instead, use detailed, directional language: “There’s a step down in about three feet” or “We’re turning right at the next corner.” This kind of clarity goes a long way in avoiding confusion or accidents.

Basic Guiding Techniques

Offering Your Arm

Most people who are blind or have low vision will take your arm just above the elbow. This allows them to walk about half a step behind you and feel your body movements, especially when navigating changes in terrain or steps. Importantly, it gives them the ability to disengage if needed for safety or preference.

Navigating Narrow Spaces

When passing through a narrow hallway or space where side-by-side walking isn’t possible, simply move your guiding arm behind your back. This signals the person to step behind you and follow single file. Let them know verbally as well: “This is a narrow spot—we’ll go single file for a moment.”

Approaching Stairs and Curbs

Give a heads-up before encountering stairs. Let the person know whether they’re going up or down and which side the handrail is on. For example: “We’re approaching stairs going down. There’s a railing on the left.” This allows time to reposition their grip or shift their balance.

Doorways and Seating

Describe doorways clearly, including which way they open. When helping someone to a seat, gently guide their hand to the back of the chair so they can seat themselves independently and safely.

Advanced Guiding Scenarios

Managing Environmental Obstacles

White canes detect obstacles on the ground, but not above the waist. If you see a low-hanging branch or awning, say so clearly: “There’s a branch ahead—duck down slightly.” Alternatively, guide the person safely around it and explain why you’re changing direction.

Crossing Streets

Always let the person know when you’re stepping off or onto a curb. While many can sense your motion, a verbal cue like “Curb up now” or “Stepping down” can provide needed reassurance and timing.

Handling Doors and Transitions

Indicate when approaching doorways, describe the direction the door opens (inward or outward), and warn of any flooring changes like carpet to tile or thresholds that could trip someone.

Reversing Direction or Changing Sides

If you need to change sides or reverse direction, explain what’s happening. For example: “I’m going to switch to your other side so we can pass through this doorway more easily.” Sudden changes without warning can be disorienting.

Etiquette and Considerations

Avoid Physical Force

Never grab, push, or pull someone to move them. This is especially important in high-traffic areas like crosswalks. Without warning, this kind of touch can feel threatening and confusing. If you must alert someone to danger, use your voice: “Excuse me! Person with the guide dog, stop! A bike is coming fast from the left!” Avoid vague warnings like “Look out!”

Also, avoid the habit of “dropping off” a blind person after crossing a street. Doing so without context can leave them disoriented. If you’ve helped someone, make sure they know where they are before parting ways.

Respect Personal Space and Autonomy

Being blind doesn’t mean being helpless. Some individuals may prefer to navigate independently and may decline your offer. Respect that choice without judgment or insistence.

Communicate Departures and Arrivals

Say goodbye when you leave a conversation, and reintroduce yourself the next time you meet. In busy environments, even familiar voices may be hard to recognize, and assumptions can lead to confusion.

Use Appropriate Language

There’s no need to avoid common phrases like “see you later.” People who are blind use these expressions too. Speak naturally and comfortably, without being overly cautious.

Training and Resources

Seek Professional Training

If you want to take your guiding skills to the next level—especially if you’re in a role where you’ll regularly work with the blind or visually impaired—consider professional orientation and mobility (O&M) training.

Utilize Available Resources

Several organizations provide training videos, tip sheets, and best practices online, including:

• Vision Loss Resources
• CNIB Foundation
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services
• YouTube channels focused on accessibility and blindness education

Seek Out Vision Loss Support Groups

Groups like the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the American Council of the Blind (ACB) often have local chapters. Many offer inclusive events such as walks, runs, and tandem bike rides where volunteers can assist. You don’t need to be blind to get involved—just a willingness to help.

What if you get it wrong?

What if you are guiding someone and they accidentally bump into something? The best way to think about this is: meh, it happens. I’ve been run into signs and other objects by almost everyone that I sighted guide with. You can’t expect to be perfect – you aren’t a guide dog! If the person you are guiding, bumps into something apologize but don’t feel like you have failed. Stuff happens.

Conclusion

Sighted guide techniques are more than just a skill—they’re an invitation to build a more inclusive, respectful world. Every interaction is a chance to support independence, dignity, and mutual understanding.

Whether you’re helping someone across a busy street, leading them through a museum, or simply walking and chatting with a friend, the key is clear communication, consent, and compassion. With these tools, you’ll not only guide more effectively—you’ll make a real difference in someone’s journey.

Did you find this article helpful? Did you learn something? Do you have questions about how to be a better sighted guide? Feel free to drop me a note here or on my socials below.

See you at the gate!

-Ted and Fauna