Orientation and Mobility (O&M)
O&M is a profession specific to blindness and low vision that teaches safe, efficient, and effective travel skills to people of all ages.
“Orientation” refers to the ability to know where you are and where you want to go, whether you’re moving from one room to another or walking downtown for a shopping trip.
“Mobility” refers to the ability to move safely, efficiently, and effectively from one place to another, such as being able to walk without tripping or falling, cross streets, and use public transportation.
Orientation and Mobility Specialists
A Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) is a trained professional who provides instruction that can help you develop or re-learn the skills and concepts you need to travel safely and independently within your home and in the community. COMS provide services across the life span, teaching infants and children in pre-school and school programs, as well as adults in a variety of community-based and rehabilitation settings.
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This video demonstrates safe techniques to walk with a person who is blind or has low vision.
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Heather Withrow is a certified Orientation and Mobility instructor. In this video, she shows how to sign terminology related to O&M.
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This page gives an overview of safe and effective ways to guide a person who is blind or has low vision. The term "human guide" is more inclusive than the more commonly used term - sighted guide. A blind or deafblind person can safely guide others who are blind or deafblind. It is the choice of the blind/low vision person being led to decide if they feel comfortable and confident in the person leading them.
