He long cane/white cane is a primary mobility aid that can increase the independence of a person who is blind or has low vision. It can be used by adults and children. The white can may also be known as a mobility cane.
Using a long cane has many functions including:
Acting as a bumper, detecting obstacles up to waist height in front of the traveller
Detecting drop-offs such as stairs and kerbs
Identifying changes in texture which can help the user keep track of where they are on their travel route
Being used as a probe to explore nearby surrounds
Allowing the user to focus on their residual vision or other senses instead of concentrating on where their foot is placed next
Identifying the user as having low vision or blindness, which can increase their safety – this can be especially useful in congested areas.