In my previous article (Understanding Social Anxiety and Blindness), I talked about how a lack of social skills can lead to social anxiety in people who are blind and visually impaired. In this article, I am focusing how building social skills can prevent or reduce the risk of having such anxiety. Studies have shown thatContinue reading “Cultivating Socials Skills In People Who Are Blind Or Visually Impaired”
Tag Archives: blind
Building a System of Support: Critical Tips for Caregivers of Children who Are Blind
By Roqayah Ajaj In a recent discussion I had with a group of teachers of the visually impaired, one of the teachers (who is blind herself) mentioned that her own mother still directed her with vague words like “here” and “there,” instead of giving precise directions. As educators and advocates, we push for communities toContinue reading “Building a System of Support: Critical Tips for Caregivers of Children who Are Blind”
Adapting Healthcare Practices to Meet the Needs of Patients who Are Blind
By Roqayah Ajaj An important part of quality healthcare is a positive relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient. This relationship should be built on trust between both parties, as well as on mutual respect and dependable confidentiality. As with other settings, doctors’ offices and hospitals can be overwhelming to people with disabilities, especiallyContinue reading “Adapting Healthcare Practices to Meet the Needs of Patients who Are Blind”
Respect: A Crucial Piece of Giving Help to a Person who Is Blind or Visually Impaired
by Roqayah Ajaj This is a question that I often get: When should I help a person who is blind or visually impaired? In this blog, I am going to share with you some personal experiences that demonstrate when and how to respectfully offer me, or other people who are blind or visually impaired, helpContinue reading “Respect: A Crucial Piece of Giving Help to a Person who Is Blind or Visually Impaired”
Interview with a Guide Dog User
Last year, I interviewed Laura Lautaret, who works at the Disability Resource Center (DRC) at the University of Minnesota. Laura is blind and uses a guide dog. She works with students who are blind or visually impaired daily to support them in using assistive technologies. We had a really nice conversation about guide dogs, whichContinue reading “Interview with a Guide Dog User”
Let’s Take a Trip: Blind Experiences with Air Travel
By Roqayah Ajaj During this time of year, before COVID-19, many people would be preparing for vacations, trips to visit family, etc. Air travel during the winter holidays is stressful for everyone, but blindness adds another layer of complexity to my travel experience. Even though there are policies that require assisting travelers with disabilities, theseContinue reading “Let’s Take a Trip: Blind Experiences with Air Travel”
Do You Have a Neighbor Who Is Blind?
Here is how you can begin working toward inclusion. by Roqayah Ajaj “Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.” Helen Keller Studies have shown that blind individuals often feel isolated and lonely, as they have challenges building relationships that would lead to inclusion in social activities inContinue reading “Do You Have a Neighbor Who Is Blind?”
Quick Tips for Blind Inclusion in University Settings
Inclusion isn’t too challenging; you can be creative and proactive to meet individual needs. By Roqayah Ajaj To promote inclusion for students who are blind and visually impaired in higher education settings, everyone must collaborate to work toward that goal: the university system at large, the staff, the students, and the faculty. Here are someContinue reading “Quick Tips for Blind Inclusion in University Settings”
Navigating the World of Higher Education as a Blind or Visually Impaired Student: Unequal Opportunities for Academic Success
By Roqayah Ajaj Have you ever wondered how students who are blind navigate the materials, system, and people in college settings? Have you wondered what students who are blind and visually impaired have to do in order to be successful in higher education? Faculty and staff in higher education: what are you doing to ensureContinue reading “Navigating the World of Higher Education as a Blind or Visually Impaired Student: Unequal Opportunities for Academic Success”
Act Thoughtfully When Assisting People who are Blind or Visually Impaired: Tips and Guidelines for Inclusion
By Roqayah Ajaj I often feel that I am a stranger and awkward person when I interact with new people since many people surprise me when they assist me. This happens when they cross my boundaries by touching me, grabbing my cane, pulling me, or even silently guiding me. This article will give some tips ofContinue reading “Act Thoughtfully When Assisting People who are Blind or Visually Impaired: Tips and Guidelines for Inclusion”
Diversely Blind 