The White Cane

A white cane is the universal symbol of blindness or vision impairment. When you find out that someone is legally blind, you most likely will assume that they use a cane; however, you may not know why they’re using a cane and how it helps the individual.


Most blind people are misunderstood because the people around them are misinformed about what this cane actually does for the user.

There are several different types of canes, they mostly differ by how length, kind of tip they have and if they are collapsible or not.

The height of the person determines how long the cane must be and the cane tip is what gives the feedback to the user. There are many different types of tips: marshmallow, pencil, metal or plastic. Each create a different experience for the user and it is personal preference as to which one works best. Marshmallow tips are round and plastic; these tips glide easier on services but give less feedback to the user. Pencil tips can be plastic or metal and give much more feedback due to the smaller tip size the user knows where practically every little nook and cranny is.

Decided to use a collapsible cane also personal preference, although individuals with complete blindness usually prefer non-foldable canes since it gives a lot more feedback compared to the collapsible, because the vibration is not muffled among the joints of the cane

The visually impaired individual would most likely prefer the collapsible cane because they might not need to use it all the time and it can be folded into a small confined package that is easier to store and carry around. The loss of feedback will not affect the user as much because they still have some residual vision to rely on.

Feedback is the vibration the cane gives off when it scrapes along the surface allowing the user to identify what type of surface are they on as well letting the user know if there is anything in front of them. The cane acts as a buffer for the user.


Now you have a better understanding of how the cane helps the blind and visually impaired. Remember to ask the individual if they need help, do not just grab their arm, you may startle them – remember they can’t see you coming. Imagine yourself in their position, you wouldn’t want someone to just take hold of you and go. Also, the blind and visually impaired can be very independent. If they need help, they will ask.

At Vision Dynamics we carry several different sizes and types of white canes, as well as replacement tips to fit any preference. We also provide tips and information on cane use and suggestions for what type may work best for you.