What is the white cane? In recognition of White Cane Day (October 15th), we asked one of our Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialists to help explain the history of the white cane and its benefits in the modern day to individuals living with severe vision loss.
History & Origin
The white cane is a symbol and tool for independence for the blind and visually impaired (BVI) community. Although the idea of using a cane, stick, or staff for navigation has been around for centuries, the white cane did not exist until 1921 when James Biggs painted his walking stick white to be more easily visible. In the 1930s, Lions Club International brought this idea to the United States after recognizing an increase in vehicle traffic and the danger this posed for individuals using a cane for vision loss purposes. During this time states also began creating ordinances that gave individuals using white canes the right of way when crossing streets. In the 1960s, White Cane Day (October 15th) was proclaimed an official day of recognition by the President of the United States.
How It Works
The white cane is a mobility tool for the blind and visually impaired. With the proper training from an orientation and mobility specialist and practice, the white cane can increase a person’s safety, independence, efficiency, and confidence while navigating their environments.
Benefits Of Using A White Cane
The white cane is beneficial for many reasons. It can:
- Detect obstacles
- Detect changes in terrain (sidewalk cracks, carpet to the tile floor, etc.)
- Help locate landmarks for orientation
- Warn the user of drop-offs (curbs, stairs, etc.)
- Identify to others that an individual is visually impaired
- Provide auditory feedback from the environment
For someone experiencing significant vision loss, the thought of using a white cane can be an intimidating and tough challenge to overcome. However, the use of a white cane can positively change lives. Below is a slideshow highlighting just a few of the individuals Future In Sight has helped gain back their independence by learning to use the white cane.
If you or someone you know is experiencing vision loss and could benefit from our services, please contact Future In Sight at [email protected] or 603-224-4039.
About the Author: Kim Carnegie is a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist at Future In Sight.