Dating with a Disability
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Dating with a Disability Tips
Dating can be challenging in general but add in a disability like being blind or visually impaired and it can cause a lot of other stressors! We wanted to share some tips on how to navigate dating as a blind or visually impaired person in today’s world. Whether you use dating apps or prefer not to we’ve got tips for you!
How to Meet People
There a plenty of ways to meet people these days! From using dating apps to meeting people organically, it can still happen with a disability. We interviewed several clients and staff for this blog post, and they had mixed reviews of dating apps. A lot of them are not very accessible for the blind and visually impaired. One client finds he has luck using Facebook dating, using Facebook’s dating services but also joining groups and interacting with people on there. When it comes to using groups or Facebook dating, the client noted it was important to not expect to get a response right away.
Another way to meet people who might be going through something similar, especially if you are new to vision loss, is to get involved with the blind community! Whether that is coming to WSB for one of our vocational training programs or getting involved in your local community, it is great to find people who are going through something similar. We have more tips on getting involved in the community in our blog post about grief and vision loss here.
To Disclose or Not
This really comes down to personal preference. Some people like to disclose right off the bat, and some people might not. It might also help if you meet someone organically who already knows about your disability. One client at WSB mentioned they liked to disclose right away so that their date may know what is difficult for them or what they might need help with. They also like to disclose early on so they know if it will be an issue or not.
And remember, if someone isn’t perceptive because of your disability, it has nothing to do with you! They are not the right person for you.
Have an open mind
While you might be familiar with your own disability, it is important to have an open mind to others with different disabilities. They might be even more understanding.
Plan Ahead
We all know as people who are visually impaired or blind we have to plan ahead and coordinate how you are going to get somewhere. Making sure you have a ride setup takes a lot of stress out of the date.
Stay safe
It is extremely important, especially as people who blind and visually impaired, to stay safe when going on dates! Make sure to let someone know where you are going and how long you might be gone. Keep your cellphone charged in case you need to call someone to come pick you up or need to call an Uber. Another great safety tip is to meet your date instead of them picking you up especially if you have never met them before.
Be Comfortable
One client mentioned they are more cautious with dating after their vision loss so it is vital to be as comfortable as possible! For a date try and go somewhere you feel comfortable so that you know how to navigate it, know the menu, etc. For example, you might not want to pick a really dark bar for a first date if you have trouble seeing at night.
Do you have any dating tips with a disability? Let us know in the comments!