Coast to Coast: Readers Share Experiences with Cane Use
A long cane can be an essential tool for many people who are partially sighted. It's not just for people who are blind. In our last issue of Sharing Solutions, we described the specialized evaluation and training provided by Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists, and the numerous ways a cane can help people navigate their surroundings safely. We also asked our readers to share their experiences. Here's what you had to say:
What Prompted Cane Use
Numerous people reported that recommendations for using a long cane came from vision rehabilitation professionals, family members and fellow support group members whose positive experiences persuaded them to consider it for themselves. Others came to the realization on their own, as they experienced difficulties getting around, including:
- missing steps and curbs
- bumping into people, walls and doors
- falling or tripping on broken concrete, tree roots, etc.
- fear of staircases and escalators
- feeling anxious when crossing streets
- having trouble locating destinations or in crowded situations
How a Cane Helps You
People described many advantages - from feeling safer walking down the street, managing stairs, detecting the depth of curbs and signaling that they have vision loss, to feeling more confident crossing intersections and getting through crowded areas. One man pointed out, "When I use a cane in a crowd, people move out of the way. It's like the parting of the Red Sea."
In addition, people indicated that they feel less awkward and more self-assured about how they appear to others. One woman found out that before she started using a cane, people thought she was intoxicated by the way she walked down the street. Another commented, "With a cane in hand, I feel secure and it gives me confidence."
The cane also alerts drivers who are expected to come to a complete stop when they encounter pedestrians crossing a street guided by a dog or carrying a white cane. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case, as a number of readers reported that drivers don't always respond appropriately, which is a serious source of concern and worry.
A cane can help even when you're traveling with others who are guiding you. Yet, sometimes friends and family may discourage cane use when you're out with them or you may feel it is unnecessary. One woman learned the hard way: when she accepted assistance from a woman who offered to guide her, she decided to give her cane a rest. Unfortunately, her guide neglected to tell her they were approaching a curb and they both fell. She said, "If I had used my cane while being guided, the accident could have been avoided. I would have detected the curb in advance." The point is underscored by another reader who said, "Once you start using a cane, you'll be amazed at how insecure you'll feel without it."
Here are more positive comments:
- "I'm able to come and go more independently."
- "It prevents falls and keeps me from running into many things."
- "My white cane is like a credit card. I don't leave home without it!"
Concerns About Cane Use
Many people admitted that they avoided the cane and put it off as long as possible, worried about how others would react, including one man who said, "The cane screams that I am blind."
The cane is often viewed as a stigma and too many people simply don't understand how a cane can help. Some feel embarrassed about vision loss or vulnerable about being an easy target. Others harbor feelings of hopelessness and depression. And misconceptions about what people who are visually impaired can and cannot do are common; for example, the notion that they are unable to do anything or need others to take care of them.
Often, these concerns and fears disappear as people experience first-hand the advantages of a cane, as indicated by one woman's comment, "At the beginning, I was self-conscious about using the cane but the more I realized what it can do for me, the more comfortable I became using it." And another individual put it well, "I thought the cane would detract from me as a person. Instead, it enhances my ability to be who I am - a person who is independent, energetic and involved!"
Self-confident. Hopeful. Secure. Worthwhile. These words describe how some people who have become cane users feel about themselves. One woman's life in New York City became less stressful once she started to use a cane. She commented, "When I use it, the crowd parts. I make my way to the ticket booth and gate with ease, without bumping into people along the way. I love it!"
Educating Others
Promoting awareness about the benefits of a long cane is an important priority. One goal is to correct the common misconception that a person with a cane is blind. Another is to demonstrate how a cane actually helps people with all ranges of vision problems. A number of people told us that they take the time to explain these points to others. In addition, one community group raises awareness of white cane laws by sponsoring "cane walks," while others make presentations at local schools and service clubs. One reader suggested that a cane question be added to the written driving test to increase driver awareness.
Family and Friends: Help or Hindrance?
Most people found family and friends supportive of their cane use. A reader said, "They are glad I have training to travel independently and safely in my neighborhood, community and even across the country." Another shared that he feels like less of a burden to his family since he can travel independently taking buses. Some people report that there is nothing like a few close calls to make family or friends realize that the cane and sighted guide techniques can be used together to make it safer for everyone.
Your Advice
Overall, peoples' positive experiences outweigh their initial reservations, typified by the following:
- "If you need a cane, you're only hurting yourself if you don't use it."
- "Just do it and don't worry about what others might think."
- "Get proper training from a certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist."
- "Don't let your vanity get in the way of cane use."
There is no single approach that will help people overcome concerns about using a cane. However, talking with, and accompanying, seasoned cane users can be a helpful and informative experience. Ask questions. Explore the possibility. You may discover - and welcome - a new opportunity that can make a difference in your life.
This article appeared in Sharing Solutions - Fall 2006 Edition