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Should I be using a cane? (+ vent) (self.Blind)
submitted by cuntasauruswithacane
Hey there fellow humans. So look mate I know this question has been asked countless times - god knows maybe people are sick of answering. But I want to know if I'm actually someone who should use a white cane.
For context; hello. I'm a 16 year old girl who has no light perception in the left eye due to a retinal detachment (from Retinopathy of Prematurity).
My right eye has 6/60 (20/200 for the Yanks & all others) uncorrected which is also from ROP.
I also have High Myopia and my previous prescription was -14 +1.5 which corrected my eyesight to roughly 6/50. However this prescription was uncomfortable to wear and it was never renewed because it caused more problems. It may be renewed in the future but for now my Opthalmology doc hasn't bothered (for some unknown reason).
I also am VERY photophobic and have an exotropia in the right eye.
Because of this I meet the criteria for legal blindness and have access to services including the O&M lessons I did nearly 3 years ago. My question is... am I entitled to even use the cane? I was given the training but I don't feel blind enough? Am I overthinking?
I struggle with depth, ground changes and even just running into people which is worse when there's light glares. I have a special needs assistant at school who is usually with me all day (not recently because of distancing + covid). At home if I go out I link up to my mum so she acts as a sighted guide I guess. She rather this than me using my cane.
My family can be very ignorant and often times they don't want to acknowledge I have a visual impairment. I've fallen down stairs and I get told I need to be more attentive, careful etc. They assume I can just focus more to make my vision better and it makes me want to scream/cry/throw hands.
I rely on my phone, on memory, but sometimes it isn't enough. I had a little breakdown yesterday in front of a teacher because I couldn't keep up with my peers etc. I guess I just need a little advice from the visually impaired cartel here on Reddit.
Do I use the cane? Am I blind enough? Why am I "grieving" the loss of sight I've had since I was born? Do I tell my parents to go fucketh thyself? I guess I'm just at "that age" where everything is meh but I need advice from people who actually KNOW what it's like with sight loss/low vision/blindness.
For context; hello. I'm a 16 year old girl who has no light perception in the left eye due to a retinal detachment (from Retinopathy of Prematurity).
My right eye has 6/60 (20/200 for the Yanks & all others) uncorrected which is also from ROP.
I also have High Myopia and my previous prescription was -14 +1.5 which corrected my eyesight to roughly 6/50. However this prescription was uncomfortable to wear and it was never renewed because it caused more problems. It may be renewed in the future but for now my Opthalmology doc hasn't bothered (for some unknown reason).
I also am VERY photophobic and have an exotropia in the right eye.
Because of this I meet the criteria for legal blindness and have access to services including the O&M lessons I did nearly 3 years ago. My question is... am I entitled to even use the cane? I was given the training but I don't feel blind enough? Am I overthinking?
I struggle with depth, ground changes and even just running into people which is worse when there's light glares. I have a special needs assistant at school who is usually with me all day (not recently because of distancing + covid). At home if I go out I link up to my mum so she acts as a sighted guide I guess. She rather this than me using my cane.
My family can be very ignorant and often times they don't want to acknowledge I have a visual impairment. I've fallen down stairs and I get told I need to be more attentive, careful etc. They assume I can just focus more to make my vision better and it makes me want to scream/cry/throw hands.
I rely on my phone, on memory, but sometimes it isn't enough. I had a little breakdown yesterday in front of a teacher because I couldn't keep up with my peers etc. I guess I just need a little advice from the visually impaired cartel here on Reddit.
Do I use the cane? Am I blind enough? Why am I "grieving" the loss of sight I've had since I was born? Do I tell my parents to go fucketh thyself? I guess I'm just at "that age" where everything is meh but I need advice from people who actually KNOW what it's like with sight loss/low vision/blindness.
Apocalyptias 18 points 2y ago
Use a cane! If you've fallen down the stairs, it's absolutely necessary.
bjayernaeiy 12 points 2y ago
Use a cane. You really sound like you need one.
Revenant624 10 points 2y ago
I personally hate the cane and that is why I opted to get a seeing eye dog.. that said, you got to do what’s best for you. Don’t worry about your parents and their ignorance. It sounds like you should be using a cane. It’s not just for your benefit, it’s for those around you.. also having a cane will give you more independence. Don’t worry about what others think or say, that’s their problem, not yours. I wish you the best of luck
BlindLuck72 1 points 2y ago
I have a guide too! But you need to be cane trained before you can get a dog. I also run into situations where it makes more sense to use the cane.
Revenant624 1 points 2y ago
I bet there are situations it would be better to use the cane, but if I can’t take the dog than I generally Won’t go.
BlindLuck72 1 points 2y ago
The main one for me is when I go to the pool. He can be in the water and there isn’t any shade there so he would have to sit in the sun and bake. Best for him to stay home and take a nap
Revenant624 1 points 2y ago
Definitely don’t want the puppy to bake. Thankfully I don’t like to swim. LOL the other thing is I can’t leave him home because he’s been with me so much that leaving him home alone gives him anxiety
Only1lunatica 9 points 2y ago
I know two separate people who have 3/60 vision, one uses a can when out and about, the other doesn't. dude who didn't walked the wrong way around some repair work and walked off a platform and landed on train tracks (he's fine,) but a cane would have told him not to walk off in his stubbornness to not have one.
if you need it to help with ledges, steps and depth then yes, you can absolutely use a cane.
if you need it to help with ledges, steps and depth then yes, you can absolutely use a cane.
ratadeacero 6 points 2y ago
You're over thinking. If it keeps you from tripping, worth it. My wife didn't lose her vision until her 30s. She was very self conscious about using her cane. She felt everyone was staring at her. (And of course they were, she's covered in tattoos). A cane is magical. People will yank kids out of your way and make a path for you. It's like having a magic power. Embrace it.
DrillInstructorJan 6 points 2y ago
Drill instructor mode engage!
Get a cane and use it before you end up falling into a hole and ending up with some other problem to go with the sight stuff. If you need it use it. Nobody's going to confiscate it from you.
Just get proper tuition. If it was years ago, you'll be rusty. Get one that's the right length, which is usually longer than you'd think. And use it. Mine is welded to my hand. If you don't end up with a callus on the heel of your hand from using it, you aren't using it enough, and get over the awkwardness. Nobody cares. What I say to people is, would you rather everyone thought you were blind, or would you rather everyone thought you were a sighted person who walks into things all the time?
Yes you are absolutely blind enough and yes it is normal for some people around you to play it down, I know that sounds weird but what they're trying to do is to allow themselves to live in a world where it's not that big a deal. If that really bothers you then let's talk about it.
Get a cane and use it before you end up falling into a hole and ending up with some other problem to go with the sight stuff. If you need it use it. Nobody's going to confiscate it from you.
Just get proper tuition. If it was years ago, you'll be rusty. Get one that's the right length, which is usually longer than you'd think. And use it. Mine is welded to my hand. If you don't end up with a callus on the heel of your hand from using it, you aren't using it enough, and get over the awkwardness. Nobody cares. What I say to people is, would you rather everyone thought you were blind, or would you rather everyone thought you were a sighted person who walks into things all the time?
Yes you are absolutely blind enough and yes it is normal for some people around you to play it down, I know that sounds weird but what they're trying to do is to allow themselves to live in a world where it's not that big a deal. If that really bothers you then let's talk about it.
FrankenGretchen 6 points 2y ago
No one is gonna stop by and bestow a cane upon you. Likewise, no one is going to drop by and confiscate it for 'improper use.' This is wholly your decision. If you're getting hurt because you can't see where you're going or what's going on around you, get and use your cane. Get more than one so you're not completely stranded if the one you're using has a mishap. They take the hits so we don't have to.
This is your safety. It's also the parts of your life you've been hesitant to do. It's life-changing.
Just so you know I'm talking from experience, I, too, have 20/200 vision, only one eye and extreme light sensitivity, right now. I'm ok without my cane unless it's snowy or dark/rainy and then I have zero qualms about using it. I have a trekking stick I use with cane for snow, too, because stability is an issue. Before eye surgery, tho, my cane and I were inseparable. I was 20/800 on a great day, with two layers of sun filtering to go out in clouds and a toddler to raise
I didn't expect to have such a boon as corrective surgery and have no idea how long my eye will hold out so my canes are handy. We never know what the future holds.
This is your safety. It's also the parts of your life you've been hesitant to do. It's life-changing.
Just so you know I'm talking from experience, I, too, have 20/200 vision, only one eye and extreme light sensitivity, right now. I'm ok without my cane unless it's snowy or dark/rainy and then I have zero qualms about using it. I have a trekking stick I use with cane for snow, too, because stability is an issue. Before eye surgery, tho, my cane and I were inseparable. I was 20/800 on a great day, with two layers of sun filtering to go out in clouds and a toddler to raise
I didn't expect to have such a boon as corrective surgery and have no idea how long my eye will hold out so my canes are handy. We never know what the future holds.
cuntasauruswithacane [OP] 5 points 2y ago
Thank you for responding. I already use it occasionally when it's very sunny and the glare blocks off my vision. But that's because I can't see people in front of me etc - even then I point my head to the ground and put it away once I get too riled up/self conscious. It's a weird combination of not knowing if it's normal or if I'm just odd. Hopefully this made sense
FrankenGretchen 3 points 2y ago
It does. You're normal. I think if it aa how I felt when doing anything for the first time in middle school. We're sure everyone is looking at us and that every whisper is about us but it really wasn't. Just remember that you wouldn't be there without your cane and whatever is or isn't being said probably has nothing to do with you. Being out and autonomous is a really cool thing. Spectators don't matter.
phillstaf 2 points 2y ago
This ^
This is exactly what needs to be said when this question is asked
This is exactly what needs to be said when this question is asked
MakihikiMalahini-who 4 points 2y ago
Well, so far I don't have a single instance where answer to this question is no. If your situation warrants this question, you should at least give it a try for a few weeks - most of them are just foldable so you can put it in your bag and forget if you don't need it. Some people are embarrassed by it but I think it's less embarrassing than hitting people / seeing people pity you when you fall down the stares.
[deleted] 3 points 2y ago
Yes you should get a cane. In my opinion there’s no real “blind enough” for a cane. If you feel like you need one and it would help you get one.
chovihanni-VIP 3 points 2y ago
Just something to remember, the came is also for identification, even if you are in an area you are familiar with it also shows others you just can't see so well. I find it also aids when I need help. People aren't such assholes when I have my cane but sometimes are if they think I'm lying about my blindness because they just seen me pull something off a shelf, just for an example
phillstaf 1 points 2y ago
^ This doesn't get said enough.
We all should strive to educate sighted folks more as to the different needs of persons with low vision. The more they know the better they can help or understand our individual needs.
We all should strive to educate sighted folks more as to the different needs of persons with low vision. The more they know the better they can help or understand our individual needs.
BenandGracie 3 points 2y ago
If you have fallen down stairs, then yes you need to use a cane.
CosmicBunny97 2 points 2y ago
If you need it, use it. There’s no such thing as not being blind enough. And from what you’ve mentioned, it will definitely help.
afraidofdust 2 points 2y ago
(Disclaimer: sighted.) I know someone who has a really similar experience with the ground and the depth perception you described. Guide dog changed her life. The guide dog is currently retired so she is using a cane.
Get the cane. Both for yourself and your folks to understand that *you are visually impaired* and they *need* to accommodate you.
Get the cane. Both for yourself and your folks to understand that *you are visually impaired* and they *need* to accommodate you.
blackberrybunny 2 points 2y ago
YES! YESSS!!
AutisticPearl 2 points 2y ago
Trust me, if you are legally blind you should be using a cane if the only reason I don't, is I can see in my right eye, and I have enough Vision that I don't technically need it which is part of the reason I've never actually taken Mobility training I'm too scared I'm in the same position you are I do have a white cane I got my first Tri white team in the National Federation of the blind this year I know how to use it because I've studied how cute it correctly I've just never gone to Mobility training classes because I'm always terrified that the instructor will tell me have enough sites I don't think you need it and make me either give the pain back or something I don't know however I should official Mobility training sooner or later, because I've been thinking on it that might be beneficial to me, and if I can actually get it relatively quickly that would be nice too I don't know if they charge.
codeplaysleep 1 points 2y ago
My vision is incredibly similar to yours (same reason, too) and I can safely say *you need the cane*.
You may not feel that you need the cane now (although it sounds like you do), but start using it now so you're good at it when you get older. I think most people with our level of vision loss will choose to use a cane at least some of the time at some point as they age (falling down when you're 45 hurts so much more than falling down when you're 15), so you might as well start young and get good at it.
Plus, you legitimately do sound like you're at a place now where a cane would really help you in your day to day life at this point.
I didn't use one at your age and I regret it now. Looking back on it, the cane would have given me so much more freedom and peace of mind and I could have used what remaining vision I have to enjoy the world around me, rather than watching every single step I took in an effort to not fall down. It also would have saved me from so many annoying interactions and instances of strangers getting angry at me for not seeing them/something around me.
You may not feel that you need the cane now (although it sounds like you do), but start using it now so you're good at it when you get older. I think most people with our level of vision loss will choose to use a cane at least some of the time at some point as they age (falling down when you're 45 hurts so much more than falling down when you're 15), so you might as well start young and get good at it.
Plus, you legitimately do sound like you're at a place now where a cane would really help you in your day to day life at this point.
I didn't use one at your age and I regret it now. Looking back on it, the cane would have given me so much more freedom and peace of mind and I could have used what remaining vision I have to enjoy the world around me, rather than watching every single step I took in an effort to not fall down. It also would have saved me from so many annoying interactions and instances of strangers getting angry at me for not seeing them/something around me.
AllHarlowsEve 1 points 2y ago
You've already fallen because of your vision, and the last thing you need is a broken arm/leg/neck. You should absolutely be using a cane.
JMMSpartan91 1 points 2y ago
My central vision is corrected to 20/40 right now.
I have RP. I use a cane to stop tripping off curbs, stairs, benches and crashing into people (opposite issue as you, I'm a giant and run people over).
I have RP. I use a cane to stop tripping off curbs, stairs, benches and crashing into people (opposite issue as you, I'm a giant and run people over).
phillstaf 1 points 2y ago
Your absolutely overthinking the question of if your blind enough. This question has no answer as its subjective to your needs and how you feel.
Using a cane can grant you more travel independence if you feel you want to use one. I share your issue there as I only use mine half the time when I feel I need it, or it would Benefit the situation.
As for family, they can be overbearing as they don't understand what your really going through. When you make choices about what assistance you need or want they will come around with time. Humans in general are negative too what they don't understand and thus you may find yourself having to teach them about your needs and your abilities.
In the school front, I understand you use a support person, but I would like to make an unpopular recommendation. There are in many places schools built around serving persons with low vision and impairments. The teaching style and overall environment is more tailored to accessible learning. From experience I spent my entire Highschool life attending a residential school for the visually impaired. During this time I leaned not only the usual education curriculum, but more hands on life style things, such as: cooking, cleaning, technology, oranitation and mobility, arts like pottery, wood working, budgeting, as well as having acces to social workers who will help you setup next steps both in post school life and at home in your current lifestyle.
Using a cane can grant you more travel independence if you feel you want to use one. I share your issue there as I only use mine half the time when I feel I need it, or it would Benefit the situation.
As for family, they can be overbearing as they don't understand what your really going through. When you make choices about what assistance you need or want they will come around with time. Humans in general are negative too what they don't understand and thus you may find yourself having to teach them about your needs and your abilities.
In the school front, I understand you use a support person, but I would like to make an unpopular recommendation. There are in many places schools built around serving persons with low vision and impairments. The teaching style and overall environment is more tailored to accessible learning. From experience I spent my entire Highschool life attending a residential school for the visually impaired. During this time I leaned not only the usual education curriculum, but more hands on life style things, such as: cooking, cleaning, technology, oranitation and mobility, arts like pottery, wood working, budgeting, as well as having acces to social workers who will help you setup next steps both in post school life and at home in your current lifestyle.
[deleted] 1 points 2y ago
[deleted]
MostlyBlindGamer 1 points 2y ago
At your age I had about the same acuity (but I did wear glasses) and photophobia. Most people had no idea I was visually impaired until I had to read something or explain why I wasn't going to be able to learn to drive. I didn't use a cane.
I slammed into a few people, I stared at the ground a lot, I hurt my legs hitting bollards, I got way too familiar with utility poles and I got yelled at by bus drivers when I flagged them down and then asked what line they were driving.
None of those things would have happened if I were using a cane. Would I use one if I went back in time? Maybe not, to be honest. I don't know, really.
I only started using one - not all the time, mind you - when my vision got even worse. Same with screen readers, by the way.
Looking back, should I have been using a cane back then? I would have stood out more, which is weird for a teenager, I would have to confront my disability more directly. Don't take this the wrong way, but you don't "qualify" as legally blind - you are legally blind. You can make of that what you will, but, to an extent, it is what it is and you have to deal with it and make the best of the accommodations and tools you have at your disposal.
I was born with low vision to begin with. Do I wish I could see better? You bet. Has it gotten me down, even when I hadn't "lost" anything I had before? Oh, yeah. Life is hard and then it's over. Do what you can to make it easier and to be happy. There's a lot to be happy about though, and there's always lots to look forward to, you know? You're not wrong for feeling the way you do and you still wouldn't be, even if nobody else felt the same.
I slammed into a few people, I stared at the ground a lot, I hurt my legs hitting bollards, I got way too familiar with utility poles and I got yelled at by bus drivers when I flagged them down and then asked what line they were driving.
None of those things would have happened if I were using a cane. Would I use one if I went back in time? Maybe not, to be honest. I don't know, really.
I only started using one - not all the time, mind you - when my vision got even worse. Same with screen readers, by the way.
Looking back, should I have been using a cane back then? I would have stood out more, which is weird for a teenager, I would have to confront my disability more directly. Don't take this the wrong way, but you don't "qualify" as legally blind - you are legally blind. You can make of that what you will, but, to an extent, it is what it is and you have to deal with it and make the best of the accommodations and tools you have at your disposal.
I was born with low vision to begin with. Do I wish I could see better? You bet. Has it gotten me down, even when I hadn't "lost" anything I had before? Oh, yeah. Life is hard and then it's over. Do what you can to make it easier and to be happy. There's a lot to be happy about though, and there's always lots to look forward to, you know? You're not wrong for feeling the way you do and you still wouldn't be, even if nobody else felt the same.
FaerilyRowanwind 1 points 2y ago
Yes. Would it help you travel? Then yes. That’s it. That’s the answer.
[deleted] 1 points 2y ago
[deleted]
Unlikely-Database-27 1 points 2y ago
Yes, you should use a cane.
Pickleweede 1 points 2y ago
I have 2/60 vision in one eye only and the other eye is prosthetic. I feel like I can see enough to not use one but I am super light sensitive. I use a cane whenever I feel a bit unsafe walking on my own and crossing roads. You don’t have to be totally blind to use one.
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