Orientation & Mobility

The Lighthouse offers individual training sessions in the use of a white mobility cane to enhance safety and independence when traveling in community settings.  Sessions focus on proper techniques to manage stairs, curbs, street crossings, escalators, and other community-based obstacles that may hinder a person’s safety and independence outside the home.  
                   
What is the difference between a cane for the blind and a regular support cane?

A mobility cane for the blind is quite different from a support cane in its design and function. A mobility cane is long and light-weight. Its length is specific to the height of the person using it. And, its purpose is to guide an individual by identifying various textures, landmarks, and obstacles when walking. A support cane is short and sturdy. It is designed to provide physical support to a person who is experiencing lower body weakness or difficulty with balance. A support cane is too short to be used as a guide for walking; however, it can be adapted with white tape to identify an individual as being visually impaired.
               
The purpose of a mobility cane is to sweep the ground from side-to-side while walking to obtain information about the path ahead.  Though this may seem simple, it is a skill that requires special instruction and hours of practice to master.  Generally, a minimum of 10 hours of training are required to safely use a mobility cane.  The purchase of a cane without proper training is not recommended.
               
The Lighthouse provides instruction in Orientation and Mobility at the New Orleans and Baton Rouge campuses and on-location at individual homes or businesses.  For more information call 504-899-4501 ext. 224 or 225-275-1200 ext. 350.  
               
Click Here to view testimonials from Students who have enhanced their mobility through the use of a white cane.