Canadian National Institute for the Blind, BC Yukon Division
Program: First Steps for Seniors
Vital Sign: Belonging & Engagement
Total Grant: $4,000
The white cane is just one of many tools used by people with vision loss – from toddlers to seniors – to assist with safety, mobility and independence. The cane is used to check for objects in a person's path, changes in the walking surface (from cement to grass, for example) and to check for dangers like steps and curbs. A secondary function of the cane is identification: recognized around the world, the white cane clearly tells other pedestrians and drivers that the user is a person with vision loss. As part of their orientation and mobility vision rehabilitation services, the CNIB British Columbia and Yukon offers a new client their first white cane and training at no cost. It is often their first step towards independence and mobility. Support will provide 100 white canes to seniors across Victoria in 2014. All types of white canes require special training from an Orientation and Mobility Instructor, who demonstrates proper techniques, wayfinding and safety. When clients receive their white cane and training from CNIB specialists, they are more likely to function with greater independence.
