Knowledge Centre

Mobility Canes

Understanding mobility canes

Mobility canes are essential tools designed to help individuals with vision impairment navigate their surroundings.

The cane provides tactile feedback about the environment, helping users detect obstacles, identify pathways, and stay safe. They are not physical support aids; mobility canes enable people to gain independence, confidence, and freedom in daily life by providing information on the environment around the cane user.

Each cane is designed to meet specific needs. Correct use often requires specialised orientation and mobility training. This is provided by a vision rehabilitation specialist (adults) and habilitation specialist (children and young people).

 

Types of canes

There are several types of canes designed for different purposes:

 

Long cane

This is the most common type of mobility cane.

It is designed to help individuals navigate independently by detecting obstacles and changes in terrain.

The long cane can either be rigid or foldable. The rubber grip has one flat edge.

The long cane provides tactile information through sweeping or tapping, allowing users to sense their environment and plan their movements.

 

Guide canes

Guide canes are used primarily to locate obstacles directly ahead, help with depth perception, and provide information about the immediate environment. They are shorter than long canes and often without a rubber grip,

They are often used by individuals with some remaining vision who don’t require the full support of a long cane.

 

Symbol canes

Thin and lightweight, symbol canes are not meant for navigation but signal to others that the user has a vision impairment. This helps create awareness and encourages others to offer assistance or be patient. The symbol cane is either foldable or telescopic.

 

Dual sensory canes

These red and white canes are designed for individuals with vision and hearing impairments. They are typically longer and sturdier than standard canes and provide enhanced tactile feedback to accommodate users’ needs.

 

How long canes are used

Long canes are designed for independent navigation and provide crucial information about individuals’ surroundings.

By sweeping or tapping the cane, users can detect obstacles, changes in terrain, curbs, stairs, and other features of the environment. The feedback from the cane allows individuals to make decisions about their next steps, ensuring their safety and efficiency when moving through unfamiliar or complex areas.

Effective use of a long cane requires specialised training. Vision Rehabilitation Specialists teach users techniques such as the two-point touch method (tapping the cane side-to-side) and constant contact (keeping the cane continuously in contact with the ground).

These techniques enable users to gather tactile information accurately and move confidently. Training also covers specific scenarios, such as navigating stairs, crossing roads, and dealing with varying surfaces.

 

How long canes increase independence

One of the most significant benefits of long canes is that they provide independence to the user.

Navigating unfamiliar spaces or busy environments can be challenging and anxiety-inducing for individuals with vision impairment. A long cane acts as an extension of the individual, providing real-time information about potential hazards and pathways. This not only increases safety but also empowers individuals to explore new areas with confidence.

Additionally, long canes serve as a communication tool, signalling to others that the user has a vision impairment. This encourages greater understanding and patience in social settings, creating a more inclusive environment.

 

Choosing the right cane

Selecting the right cane ensures comfort, safety, and effectiveness. The appropriate cane length depends on the user’s height, stride length, and walking speed. A correctly sized cane typically reaches between the person’s sternum and chin when held upright.

The choice of cane type also depends on the person’s specific needs. Someone with minimal vision loss may prefer a guide cane, while someone with complete vision loss may rely on a long cane.

Many canes are adjustable or come in various lengths to suit individual requirements.

 

Long canes as tools of empowerment

Long canes are more than practical mobility aids—they symbolise independence and empowerment.

They foster confidence and self-reliance by enabling individuals with vision impairment to navigate the world on their terms.

With proper training and regular use, a long cane becomes a trusted companion, creating opportunities for work, education, travel, and social interaction.

Beyond personal benefits, long canes also promote greater societal awareness. They signal that a person is vision-impaired, encouraging a more understanding and inclusive attitude.

Through education, advocacy, and the widespread use of mobility canes, we can help create a world where people with vision impairment can thrive independently and with dignity.

 

In addition to the support links below, your local council’s Sensory Impairment Team is a key resource. Your local council’s website should have this information.