Fast Food Dining

Some days, just chomping on a burger and hanging out with friends is all you need to have a good time. So let's go over some tips to help make visiting a fast-food restaurant the enjoyable experience you want it to be.

For starters, check out the menu online using a computer or smartphone before you go. This gives you time to think about what you'd like without feeling rushed. Also, it wouldn't hurt to call ahead to find out if they have large print or braille menus, especially for a new place, and be aware that not all online menus show prices or they may be different when you get there.

Independently-owned fast-food places often have printed menus. Asking for a printed menu gives you the option of using a handheld magnifier if you have one. Plus, if you like the food and think you'll be coming back again, you can take the menu home or scan it into your phone for future trips.

Most fast-food restaurants have a large menu hanging behind the counter, which can be tough to read no matter your vision. They may list specials or seasonal items on sidebars and banners or pictures on the counter. It can be a lot to deal with. If you use a magnification device, focus it just over the head of the cashiers to read the menu from a distance or use your smartphone to take a picture of the menu and use the zoom feature to read it. Feel free to check out Hadley's workshops on magnifiers for more tips like these about low-vision devices.

Of course, if you just can't read the menu, ask a companion or the person in line behind you for help. If you have a taste for something in particular, like that juicy burger, ask them to skip right to that section of the menu or if you're unsure, have them start by reading the different headings first, like burgers, chicken or salads to help you decide. When it's time to take your order, if the cashier tries to ask your companion what you'd like, just speak up and order for yourself, and while you're there, ask where the restrooms are located before leaving the counter. This way, you won't have to stand in line a second time just to ask that question. This also helps you save time when you're dining alone by asking the cashier or the person behind you in line about the menu selections, seating layout and restroom location.

Ordering your food to-go will make it easier to carry it to your table, especially if you also have a support cane. A lot of times, condiments and napkins are at a separate counter, so ask the cashier to put everything you need right into the bag. If you order a drink, have the cashier put it directly in your hand, but if the cashier gives you an empty cup, ask to have it filled for you in a to-go cup. The self-serve area may be too hectic for you with people coming and going, getting drinks, condiments and napkins. If you do get your order on a tray, have the cashier put everything you need, condiments, your drink, napkins on the tray before you leave the counter.

Now, if you're also using a white cane, here are some important tips to help you use the cane and carry the tray. So, let's say you hold your cane with your right hand. To hold the tray with two hands and the cane in an upright position, slide your right-hand down the cane until it touches the counter's edge. Now, while still holding your cane, slide the tray to the edge of the counter and use both hands to lift it. If you prefer, you could also carry the tray with one hand and your cane out in front of you. Just follow these steps. After you've lifted the tray with both hands, keep your left elbow close to your side with the inside of your forearm facing up. Now, slide that forearm under the tray. Then, wrap the fingers of your left-hand around the edge of the tray that's furthest from you. Hold the close edge of the tray in the bend of your elbow to get the most stability.

If going out to eat is something you love to do, take a look at our other dining series workshops and contact a Hadley learning expert if you need help with money organization and paying or if you have your own fast-food tips to share. Of course, as with anything new, give yourself time, patience and practice, and you'll get there.