MCB/DDS Partnership
 Orientation & Mobility/Low Vision Services
            www.mass.gov/dds/visionloss

Voice Guiding
Voice Guiding can be safely used in areas where there is level flooring and few obstacles. An individual can follow a voice guide to travel to a destination without physical assistance such as sighted guide. 

1.	Greet the individual by name, tell him your name and the destination.  

2.	
Voice Guide

Encourage the person to use protective techniques when walking through open space.  

3.	
   Upper 
   Protection 

    Lower 
    Protection

Walk facing the individual, intermittently turning forward as you move to ensure that you do not bump yourself or fall.  Talk to the individual as he walks toward you, as he will be following your voice as a guide.

4.	
Following a voice guide, using upper and lower protective techniques. 

Maintain the individual’s safety at all times, making sure that bumping into objects or furniture does not occur when walking. 

5.	Describe to the individual what is to the left and right while walking. Identify any landmarks along the way, as well as any upcoming environmental changes. Explain any sounds and smells along the route. 

Developed by: John Staren, M.Ed., COMS 
Lisa DiBonaventura, M.A., COMS

Please also see the following MCB/DDS Partnership handouts: 
•	Mobility Canes
•	Trailing, Landmarks, Squaring Off, and Protection
•	Sighted Guide