Very few "blind" people are totally blind. If you need it, use it, I'd say. Also, you may prefer to stick with the regular white. it's as much for those around you to realise you can't visually process as for your navigation.

I don’t think we should be gatekeeping using a cane. As the others said, if it helps you, use it!

Not at all. If it helps you, use it. And as the other commenter said, use a real one that actually works. One of my friends is almost blind at night, so he has a white cane in his bag and uses it at night.

I'd talk to a doctor about the sensory issues and photophobia to make sure you aren't suffering needlessly with something that could be treated.

That said, no, by all means, use a cane if it helps you.

There is so, so, so much more to being visually impaired than simply the measure of your visual acuity. Some of it is physical, some of it is psychological, some of it is neurological, etc. In the end, visual acuity is just one of a number of metrics. What's important is functional vision - how well your vision works for you when. going about your normal life.

Most blind folks have some functional vision. Many of us choose to close our eyes and not use it in various situations where it becomes more trouble than it's worth - and yes, that's totally a real thing that happens. Sometimes not having sight is easier than mentally processing the over-stimulation or the physical discomfort of too much light, movement, etc.

So not much different than your situation, really. Your visual acuity is just more correctable than a lot of folks here (but probably not all of us).

You might only need rugged boots to go hiking and you might only need a white cane once in a while. No big deal.

On another note, you might want to talk to a doctor about that. I'd start with a GP who could refer you to a specialist of necessary.

I'm in almost exactly the same position as you. I too have sensory processing issues which make things difficult on some days.