Canes

People with serious visual impairments can travel independently using a white cane, the international symbol of blindness.
A long cane is used to extend the user's range of touch sensation, swung in a low sweeping motion across the intended path of travel to detect obstacles. However, some visually impaired persons do not carry these kinds of canes, opting instead for the shorter, lighter identification (ID) cane.
Still others require a support cane.

Each of these canes is painted white for maximum visibility, and to denote visual impairment on the part of the user.
In addition to making rules about who can and cannot use a cane, some governments mandate the right-of-way be given to users of white canes or guide dogs .
A white cane is used by many people who are blind or visually impaired , both as a mobility tool and as a courtesy to others.
Mobility canes are often made from aluminium , graphite-reinforced plastic or other fibre-reinforced plastic , and can come with a wide variety of tips depending upon user preference.

        

There are at least four different varieties of this tool, each serving a slightly different need.

• Long cane : This "traditional" white cane is designed primarily as a mobility tool used to feel obstacles in the path of a user. Cane length depends upon the height of a user, and traditionally extends from the floor to the user's sternum. Some organizers favour the use of much longer canes.

• "Kiddie" cane : This version works in the same way as an adult's long cane, but is designed for use by children.

• Identification cane : The ID cane is used primarily to alert others as to the bearer's visual impairment. It is often lighter and shorter than the long cane, and is more limited as a mobility tool.

• Support cane : The white support cane is designed primarily to offer physical stability to a visually impaired user. By virtue of its color, the cane also works as a means of identification. This tool has very limited potential as a mobility device.