The White Cane
As I walk with my white cane, I receive looks from being scared of me, to awe! Nevertheless, most people who see my white cane do not have any idea to what it is or means. This is why we have “White Cane Day” on October 15th of each year.
On October 6, 1964, a joint resolution of the Congress, HR 753, was signed into law authorizing the President of the United States to proclaim October 15 of each year as “White Cane Safety Day.” This resolution said:
“Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives…, that the President is hereby authorized to issue annually a proclamation designating October 15 as White Cane Safety Day and calling upon the people of the United States to observe such a day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized the importance of the white cane as a staff of independence for blind people and he hereby proclaim October 15, 1964 as White Cane Safety Day.
In the first Presidential White Cane Proclamation, President Johnson commended the blind for the growing spirit of independence and the increased determination to be self-reliant that the organized blind had shown. The Presidential proclamation said:
The white cane in our society has become one of the symbols of a blind person’s ability to come and go on his own. Its use has promoted courtesy and special consideration to the blind on our streets and highways. To make our people more fully aware of the meaning of the white cane and of the need for motorists to exercise special care for the blind persons who carry it
With this proclamation was the beginning not the end to gain recognition for the growing independence and self-sufficiency of blind people in America, and to gain recognition of the White Cane as the Symbol of that Independence and that Self-Reliance.
Attitudes toward people with disabilities have changed dramatically over the course of the last two hundred years. In our early years as a country, most individuals that were blind were singled- out for pity, and urged to accept their afflictions, as the will of God. There was NO ASSISSTANCE offered to the BLIND from the government, as they had to rely on alms giving from religious institutions, individuals, and for the most part, they had to BEG with a cup in hand. A chronology of the most of the laws that deal with the disability rights movements can be found at; http://www.sfsu.edu/~hrdpu/chron.htm
In 1940 - The National Federation of the Blind was formed, (not founded), in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, by Jacobus Broek and other blind advocates. They fought hard for “white cane laws” and for all programs for the blind to have input from blind clients, among other reforms. In addition, many states have enacted laws regarding rights for blind people, from traveling to education. In 1966, Dr. Jacobus Broek, the founder of the National Federation of the Blind, drafted the Model White Cane Law, known as the Civil Rights Bill for the Blind, the Disabled, and the Otherwise Physically Handicapped.
It was not that long ago, just think about, in the 1960’s, only a very small group of people that were blind are that were vision impaired, could travel alone. Then in the late 70’s, it has been reported, that number had multiplied a hundredfold. In addition, not many years ago, it was unusual to see a person that was blind walking alone on the sidewalks or even in a store, shopping. Even better than that, to see a person that is blind, operating machinery in a factory, or even running their own business or being the boss of others. At least now, we can say ‘Thank Goodness” for these things and others, as they are ordinary and commonplace. They are this way because of the symbol of being normal. For this symbol, gives a person that is blind the opportunity to go, as other do, to move as others do, to be as others are, and to complete with everyone…and by which means is this done, with a simple tool, called the “WHITE CANE.”
With the simple tool, the “White Cane,” being normal, happens. It produces the element of the will or spirit to be free and the determination to be independent. Being normal is what everyone wants and needs and this is what the “Spirit of White Cane Day,” is all about.
October 15th is National White Cane Safety Day
In 1921, James Biggs, a photographer from England found himself, blind after an accident. Not liking the condition he was in and scared because of all the traffic around the area he lived, he came up with the idea to paint his stick that had been given to him for walking. He decided, if the stick was a bright white, just possibly it might be seen. Then, 9 years later, in 1930 George A. Bonham, then President of the Peoria Lions Club (Illinois) decided to add a red band at the bottom of the White Cane as a means of assisting the blind in independent mobility. The Peoria Lions approved the idea, and white canes were made and distributed and because of this, the Peoria City Council adopted an ordinance giving the bearers the right-of-way to cross the street.
While the White Cane is commonly accepted as a “symbol of blindness,” there are still many different rules in different countries. In the United States, the laws are different, state-to-state:
Ø Users of white canes are afforded the right-of-way, when crossing the road, and can use them in any public place.
Ø In some cases, it is illegal for a non-blind person to carry a white cane.
Ø Generally, the solid ‘White Cane ‘is to indentify that the person is blind.
Ø The ‘White Cane’ but has ‘Red’ (sometimes called the tip) at the bottom, is to identify the person is visually impaired, blind, and has another physical aliment.
Ø In the United Kingdom, the ’White Cane’ that has ‘Two Red Bands at the Bottom’ (sometimes called the tip); this indicates the user is deaf blind.
Ø In addition in some places the ’White Cane’ is actually…yellow.
Ø In addition, the Reflective tape or paint that is used is for the headlights of motor vehicles will reflect and alert the drivers and or passengers in the vehicles that a blind person is ahead, beside, or behind them.
As with anything, there are some disagreements relating to White Canes. As with all things in our society, it comes to which type is preferred. The disagreements are about which “White Cane” is best and works for the person. There is a ‘Long Cane,’ ‘Collapsible Cane’ (Folding Cane), ‘Telescoping Cane,’ ‘Support Cane,’ ‘Kiddie Cane,’ ‘Identification Cane,’’ Symbol Cane,’ ‘Guide Cane,’ and ‘Extending Canes.’
The ‘long Cane’ is in one piece, while the more popular variety is the ‘collapsible (Folding) Cane ‘which can be generally folded into 4 or 5 pieces and carried in a hand bag. The problem or disagreement is whether the ‘Long Cane’ or the ‘Collapsible Cane’ is more useful and effective. While those who trust the ‘Long Straight Cane,’ contend that, it affords more safety, because of its extra length and solid strength. The “long Straight Cane’ has also been called the "traditional" white cane, also known as a "Hoover" cane, after Dr. Richard Hoover, who designed it primarily as a mobility tool used to feel obstacles in the path of a user. The ‘Long Cane,’ length depends upon the height of a user, and traditionally extends from the floor to the user's sternum. While some training experts and users believe in the use of much longer canes.
On the other hand, those who put their trust in the ‘Collapsible Cane,’ believe that the benefit of being able to fold their cane is why it is best. As they can be quickly folded down and stored under a seat, in a pocket, in a purse, in an airline seat pocket, in a backpack, or even attaching a string to it and tieing it to a belt loop. One can put it away in a crowed place, as a classroom, public event, and best of all while traveling in public transportation.
Coming in close to, the ‘Collapsible Cane’ is the ‘Telescoping Cane’ and it is very popular, today. The ‘Telescoping Cane’ has several sections, which can be pushed, or telescoped, into the handle of the cane. They say it is convenient, because it can be put into a purse are a pocket when not in use, but it has proven not to be very durable.
In addition, there is:
Ø ‘Kiddie cane’: This version works in the same way as an adult's ‘long cane,’ but is designed for use by children.
Ø ‘Identification cane ‘(Symbol Cane in British English): 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.
Ø ‘Support cane ‘or sometimes called a ‘Mobility Cane’: This is usually a’ white support cane’ and it is designed primarily to offer physical stability to a visually impaired user. Sometimes a person that is not visually impaired will use it as a sign to show that the person has some type of a disability. By virtue of its color, the cane also works as a means of identification.
The modern ‘White Canes ‘are made from aluminum, graphite (carbon fiber), or fiberglass. The Graphite canes are extremely light, yet they are very, very strong. They do not bend easily; however, they will break, if placed under extreme pressure. They also come with a wide variety of tips depending upon the user’s preference. It seems that an average person that is blind that uses their cane daily will need to replace the cane about every 6 to 8 months and replace the tips 3 to 4 times a year.
It seems that every year new advantages are being made in this area, presently there is a new "glow-in-the-dark" cane. It is a carbon-fiber cane with a special covering; it emits a soft greenish light for up to two hours, making it easier for motorists to see pedestrians in the dark. In addition, there is new cane called the slim "I.D." canes, intended to be used by visually impaired people, who just need to let others know they have a vision problem. Many blind people are also using these canes, especially when they are fitted with larger roller, or marshmallow tips, to prevent them from becoming caught in cracks and crevices. In addition, these new rollers and marshmallow tips are great, they help with getting around all the cracks and crevices; however, they take away the touch feel to the “White Cane.” The different tips are:
Ø Pencil tip. Pros: Good feedback and lightness make it a good choice for people with problems moving their wrist for long periods of time. Cons: The long, thin tip has tendency to get stuck in cracks in the sidewalk.
Ø Roller tip. Pros: Rolls over cracks in sidewalk, making for a smoother walk. Cons: Greater weight can add to wrist fatigue; does not provide as much feedback to the traveler about small changes in the terrain.
Ø Marshmallow tip. Pros: Thick tip won't get stuck in cracks easily. Cons: Heavy; can cause wrist fatigue over time.
Ø Metal glide. Pros: Very light; glides easily over cracks.
While 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. Not all of the modern white canes are designed to fulfill the same primary function, as with the tips and colors. Therefore, it is important to find the “White Cane” that is best for you, for only you know what is best for you.
The methods of using the “White Cane,” is for improving mobility and there are many different teaching methods and ways of operating a “White Cane. “ The first thing one has to know before beginning is the “White Cane” assist the user to clear a safe path ahead by tapping and reaching and also, it assist the user to identify the surface on which the user is walking as soft, hard, smooth, or rough. Furthermore, by tapping the “White Cane” on items around them as walls, trees, furniture, and etc., the “White Cane” user is able to figure out their location and possibly directions to where they are to be going or coming from. However, proper cane skills are a trial and error proposition, as it takes innovation that deals with one’s personal preferences, for most of the time it is a touch and feel technique.
Basic techniques to using a White Cane:
1. Holding the Cane
One has to find out what is best for them, as there are many different reasons one has for holding the cane in different ways. It could because of another health problem are it just does not feel right to do it this way. Myself, I find that when I am using a “White Cane” in the full-extended position:
§ Placing the end of the handle into the center of the palm of my hand, wrapping fingers and thumb around the handle lightly, keeping the palm facing up and holding my hand at about waist level is the most comfortable; you have to find what is comfortable for you.
§ Tuck the elbow in, so that it presses against your side lightly.
§ Use your elbow as an anchor to keep your cane hand in relatively the same place. This helps to keep you in a straight line.
§ Use this method outdoors and anytime that you are walking at a normal brisk pace. The cane in this position gives me about 2 to 3 steps of notice of upcoming obstacles or landmarks.
In places where one has to move, more slowly, as inside shops, in line at the bank, in a crowd and other places like that:
§ Hold the cane closer and more vertical.
§ Hold the cane handle like a pencil at about mid chest level. This gives you about 1 to 2 steps of advance notice of things coming up, which is enough in indoor or slower pace situations.
I do have one problem, I find it difficult in holding the cane in one position for long periods. Sometimes I find it more comfortable to turn my wrist a bit or switch from the indoor to the outdoor grip. Some people also switch from one hand to the other. I have nerve damage so I had to change hands very often. The goal is to gain experience and the only way to do this is to practice and find out what technique works for you.
2. Arc
The arc of the cane is how wide you swing it in front of you. A good rule of thumb is to have the cane arc slightly larger than the width of your body. If you seem to brush your shoulder or hip frequently, this is probably because you need to widen the arc a bit.
§ Keeping the handle in the center of your body, tapping the same distance from center on both sides will help you keep in a straight line.
§ Keep your head up; pointing your nose where you want to go will also help keep you in a straight line. Lots of practice will help the most, though!
§ The best travel technique is to touch the cane tip light on the left and right side as you walk along. It does seem to work more smoothly if you tap the cane on the opposite side of the foot you as you are stepping forward. Confused? When you step forward with your right foot, your cane tip will touch down on the left. It is awkward at first, but in time, it is as natural as walking!
§ Remember - Very important! You only go where your cane has been!
§ Do not step backwards or sideways unless your cane has already been there.
3. Shore-Lining
This is a very simple technique for Shore-lining; it is used to find driveways, doorways, sidewalks, steps, or other places that you to know where they are, so you can be safe:
§ As you walk down the hall or whatever, you tap the cane into the floor or wall on the side of the hall where you are looking for the door.
§ As you go along the cane will tap into an empty space…hall, wall, back to empty hall. There will be nothing there are you will feel the opening.
§ Different sounds and feels up the shaft will let you know what is ahead.
Shore lining, can also be used to count doorways, driveways, sidewalks, posts or anything else. Let us, say that you are going to a friend’s home, which lives three houses down from yours. You could use the shore lining technique to count the sidewalks that lead up to the houses. You will remember, next time to turn at the 4th post or the steps are after the sidewalk bends, or maybe the mailbox is 6 steps down the driveway as you feel the grass, reach to the left and open. The best ways to do this is by experimenting and practicing, get someone to go with you and help you learn the path; however, use common sense as things can change on you.
Remember … bumping the cane into objects is not a mistake, it is useful in helping you to know what is around as you explore and this is the only way to learn the touch and sound of metal, wood, cement and other things.
The only way to get reference points is to bump them. There could be special sounds, which the sidewalk makes, right at the front door to a certain store you like. You might not be exactly right each time, but you should be close to the area. The bumping, touch, and feel, is like hearing.
4. Driveways and Streets
This is just pure old common sense!
§ Remember drainage, well where will the water go if it rains. Usually, driveways drain to the street. why? Because they slope, therefore, you will probably feel like one leg is longer than the other is when you are walking across a driveway.
§ Next, streets drain into gutters. As you step off a curb, you should feel the drop (up or down). As you walk across, there should be a going up and then down, or the other way. This is usually true, unless you are on a hill. The drainage will be different. Think about it as you are out the next time. Notice the feel of the cane and ground under your feet as you move about.
§ As you learn the cane, you will begin to notice hallways, doorways, parked cars, telephone poles, buildings, trees, and a whole lot of other great things by the simple change in the sound or feel. What happens is the trees and hallways funnel a sounds or a feel to you, your nerves in your hands pick up this, and each item has a different sound or feel. It is not magic, it is just learning to pay attention to a new sense. You might have lost you sight, but you have gained a greater sense of touch and feel.
Some Advanced Techniques:
These advance techniques are not more complicated or more difficult. They are simply the next step in learning the “White Cane.” Just as one learns to add before they learn to divide, these wholes true in learning the “White Cane,” it is just the natural progression and the basics come before the advance.
Advance 1. Stairs
In our world there are all sorts and designs of stairs, there are some with handrails, some with landings, and some with turns. While the basic technique will be the same in all of these, the main thing to remember is you can only go safely, to where your, “White Cane,” has already been.
§ USE the HANDRAIL ! Use one hand on the handrail and use the other hand for the cane.
§ HOLD the cane diagonally across your body a little ways in front of you.
§ Lightly rest the tip of the cane on the step in front of yourself. As you go down the cane tip slides forward and drops down to the next step. When it stops dropping and just slides, you will know that you are at the bottom or landing.
GOING UP! Doing the same basic thing, except the cane won’t do the slide and drop.
§ Lightly press the cane tip against the step and slide it up to find the next step
Ø Keep the cane ahead of yourself two steps or so, because it is awkward to have the cane only one-step ahead.
If you are in a person’s home or some other place where you think, there might be stuff on the stairs, move the cane across as you slide it up or down to check for toys, or whatever else might be there.
REMEMBER!
Always check with your cane first before you move into any space that is not known to you. Use your common sense and go with what works for you.
Advance 2. Crossing Streets
I know for myself, this was the most frustrating thing to do, by myself, and even with a helper. It should not have to be that way, for anyone. I would say the only way to get over this one, is to take a deep breath and remind yourself that you can do it. Start small and work up to more complicated and dangerous intersections.
Ø First, before you attempt anything be sure you know the rules of the road for the area you are attempting to do this. You have to know when cars and trucks can turn, which lanes of traffic turn and how and when. In addition, when they stop and when the can go on red or yellow.
Ø Pay attention to the sounds , as you approach the intersection…if possible always cross at an intersection. SOUNDS are very important!
Can you hear the traffic? Sounds of a motor, the brakes, the radio, can inform you, how close the car or truck is, and even how fast or slow, it is going. Always stop and listen before you attempt to cross, learn the sounds of people, which are standing, are walking, and the sounds of the traffic lights. Before you attempt to cross, you should have an idea of all that is going on around you. A major problem is some of today cars and trucks are very quiet!
Ø KNOWLEDGE of the intersections. Need to know what type of intersection it is, if possible, T-intersection, one way or two, an island, traffic lights, stop or yield signs, or even if it is close to an entrance or out for a shopping center or business. The best thing to do is stand there… until you know… you feel… you understand…, the traffic intersection, completely. Stand back and just relax as you figure this out.
Ø If you are right at the curb, the drivers will most likely think you are trying to cross. They could get confused and could stop or yell at you that it is okay to go. It may not be safe, so beware!
IMPORTANT!
NEVER! NEVER! NEVER! Cross a street …if you are not sure… even if someone tells you… that it is okay.
It may very well be Okay to go, but if you are not sure, not ready, then do not go. When you cross the street, it has to be on your own terms. Do not step out into traffic on someone else’s, Okay. You will only learn, when you understand, and trust your instincts. When I was learning, and I still am, as I am not still comfortable, by myself, so I plan on, when I know I am having to cross an intersection, to have my wife with me, to help. To me it seems like it takes me too long to get across, the ringer is telling me that cars are going to be coming, so I get confused. I hope that with more practice, I will get more confident. I am always scared that I will not walk in a straight line and veer off.
Advance 3. Sounds in the Environment
As one get better with using their “White Cane,” they will begin to move around safely, and then they should begin to hear and sense things around them. You should be beginning to feel normal and begin to hear the sounds that anyone would be hearing as, far away traffic, birds, dogs barking, music in shops as you pass, and grocery carts being pushed through a parking lot. Next, you should begin to notice the things that are there but do not necessary make a noise, but it is a noise as wind blowing, trees, parked cars, doors, and buildings. I am not saying you will be able to hear a tree, but the branches move, the leaves blow, it is more of a sense as a smell, it sounds you sense.
EXPERIMENT
Go into a room or office and shut the door. Stand quietly and listen for a minute or two. Now, go into a larger room, stand in the middle and listen for another minute or two. Can you notice the difference? Doesn’t the first smaller room or office sound smaller? The walls do not talk to you, but the sounds are funneled differently.
Try talking and then put your hand in front of your mouth. Listen to how the sound changes. As you pay more and more attention to the sounds around you, the ability to notice objects by the absence of sound will increase.
Practice this skill in a hallway… Try walking down the center of a hallway, keeping yourself on course by listening to the way the sounds change when you get too close to a wall. If you are doing this away from home be sure to also use your cane!
Remember Practice! Practice! Practice!
The only way to get better is to work on it.
It may take months or years, but it will come.
