There are small, light, almost symbolic canes precisely for cases like this, for people who don't really need to use it as an orientation tool but to identify as blind. I think it would be reasonable for you to get one.

Yes, there are a few types of canes... A Mobility Cane which is the one with the big nob at the end, use to safely navigate around your community. An ID Cane, it's a thinner cane with a pencil tip, it’s lighter than the Mobility Cane.

I am legally blind, I have RP and I’m 40, up to three years ago I would not use a cane because of the stereotype that is associated with it. My close friend s and family knew about my eyes and the people I work closly with knew but I did not advertise that I was legally blind to the public.

I work in a call center environment and the grey walls and carpet and filing cabinets started blending together, my depth perception was starting to go as well as my field of vision. Now I carry a mobility cane everywhere I go, I use it like a walking stick (which is wrong) and when I am in an unknown places or crowds I use it like the way it should be used. I also have an ID can but I prefer the Mobility Cane because there are times when I have a hard time seeing.

I know so many people that should be using their canes but choose not to due to the stigma of it makes them weak and vulnerable. They would rather hide the fact they can’t see and physically hurt themselves.
I am a big advocate for the visually impaired to use a cane, it is a symbol of independence.
Hope this helps

You should get an identification cane. A lot of visually impaired people have them.

I use a full length mobility cane to compensate for my restricted field of view and the fact that my vision is virtually unusable in bright or low light situations. I find it useful to be able to locate curbs and other obstacles in my environment. However having the identification has been an equal advantage. The extra ID can come with it's disadvantages, I am trying to figure out how to get people to stop randomly grabbing me in public to try to help. I posted about that a couple days ago. Other than that I feel much safer in traffic, cars are more aware, people are more aware, and I don't run into as many things. It's good all around.

I work with students with visual impairments. Quite a few are taught to use canes not for navigation sake but for use in the community. People are much more aware when they see someone with a cane. Even if you're just holding it by your side

OP, after reading this thread I'm now realizing that I need an identification cane as well so Thank you everyone! :D I'm 23 and from a country where disability laws basically don't exist but now live in Canada and have been dealing with all of these issues especially the glasses thing! And then there's the whole, People thinking I'm rude or mean because I'm almost never the first person to say hi- I've been called a bitch For this numerous times. I've never been one to broadcast my condition because I wanted to maintain my independence and be "normal" but after reading about all of the ways it's helped I think now is the time. The only thing I'm worried about is people thinking that I'm faking it because, While my family and friends know, most people have no idea that I'm legally blind unless I tell them. Has this been an issue for anyone?