Why Is a Blind Cane Used?

Why Is a Blind Cane Used?

A white cane, more commonly known as a blind cane, is a device used by people who are visually impaired or blind. Apart from the obvious benefit of allowing the user to scan their surroundings for orientation marks and obstacles, it also helps onlookers identify the user as blind.

This further consents the onlookers to offer appropriate care when needed by the user. It is also one of the main reasons why Sticks for Blind are usually white in color. However, with the increase in demand for white canes, several manufacturers have come up with different versions of it.

Types of Canes for Blind

Finding different variants of a cane can further make it harder for people to make the right choice. Here mentioned are a few of the common variants that you might have to choose from. 

·         Long Cane:

Primarily designed to be used as a mobility tool for the blind, this cane is used to detect objects in the path. While the length of it usually depends on the height of the user, conventionally, it is supposed to reach at least the user’s sternum. It is by far the most commonly used cane, although some organizations like to use longer canes.

·         Guide Cane:

Relatively a shorter cane, this one typically extends from the floor to the user’s waist. Given its shorter size, it has more limited capabilities as a mobility device and mainly used to scan steps and curbs. A guide cane acts as a protection device when used diagonally, warning the user of obstacles immediately in front of them.

·         Identification Cane:

Also known as ID cane, this is lighter and shorter than a Blind Walking Cane, this has no use for enhancing mobility. This cane’s primary focus is to let others know that the user is visually impaired, yet not to the extent where they will require a long cane.

·         Support Cane:

This kind is designed with the main focus of offering physical stability to a visually impaired person. Along with that, it can also act as an identification device. However, it has no such purpose as a mobility device.

·         Kiddie Cane:

These Canes for Blind are mainly made to be used by kids; hence they are lighter and smaller. Apart from that, it functions the same as the rest of the variants mentioned here.

·         Green Cane:

Used in several countries like Argentina, the main purpose of this kind is to let the onlookers know that the person is partially blind, unlike a white cane that indicates complete blindness.

Having this information about canes can significantly help better your purchase. However, you should always ask the user about what kind of cane they think will best suit them. It also helps to ask your doctor about this.