The ability to travel from place to place safely and efficiently is one of the most important skills a blind person can learn.  Many visually impaired people use a long cane, known as a blind cane or blind man's cane, to get around independently.  These canes are used to clear a path in front of the user.  This guide will give useful information for learning to use a blind cane effectively and confidently.

HOW-TO BASICS

When using a blind cane, hold it as if you were shaking hands with someone, with your thumb and index finger extending along the handle.  Your hand should be about waist high, fairly close to the stomach, and centered in front of your body.  Your arm should rest comfortably against your side.  Move the cane back and forth in an arc slightly wider than your shoulders, thereby protecting your whole body from hitting anything in your path.  As you form this arc, tap alternately on the left and ride sides of your body.

COMFORT AND SAFETY

To avoid strain and ensure the most comfortable experience, you should control the movement of your cane with wrist motions, rather than arm motions.  For safe travel, use the following method to make sure you always have an extra step to take before you come into contact with anything your cane might meet:

• Make sure your cane is always in front of the foot that is back
• For example, as you step forward with your right foot, move the cane to the left and hit the floor in front of your left foot
• Then, as you step forward with your left foot, move the cane to the right and hit the floor in front of your right foot
• The cane should always hit the floor at the same time your foot hits

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

With a little practice, you will learn the basics of this technique in just a short time.  You'll then grow confident in your ability to travel by yourself, gaining independence and self-assurance.  And, of course, the combination of environmental information, like the sounds of traffic, and the sound and tactile feedback given by the cane, gives you the information you need to travel safely and independently.

MORE HELP

Most states have a rehabilitation agency for the blind, and the workers there should be very helpful if you need more information about learning to travel with your cane.  There are also many organizations, both local and online, that can provide assistance.  Finally, don't overlook the opportunities that can come from talking to other blind people in your area.  Most will gladly share information and willingly teach you what they know.

SUMMARY

In closing, you can gain a great deal of independence by learning to safely and efficiently use a blind cane.  With the information above, and a little experimenting, you'll soon be traveling safely wherever you wish to go!

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 Copyright 01/11/2006, Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.  All rights reserved.  The contents of this work shall not be used, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Affordable Med Supplies, Inc.