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I have albinism, and used an ID cane for years. I recently started training with and using a long cane, because I found that it does not only the job of an ID cane but better, but it also provides extra feedback and a safety net, which is invaluable in the situations when my residual vision isn't enough, and makes me feel safer the rest of the time.

I ended up getting a long ID cane that I use to also probe at things on occasion. I will say that it's so immensely helpful when I am by myself. I don't "look" like I'm visually impaired, and so people are much more quick to help me out. It's also a safety issue for example when trying to cross a street. Drivers and bicyclists will see the cane and be alerted to the fact that I might not be able to see them. I've only been using an ID cane for about 4 months, but it has already helped me avoid walking against a light.

If you need it then go for it!

I also have hemianopsia, and after my last experience tripping over a bad paver on my blind side I got a real cane.

Some times people spontaneously ask if they can help me. Sometimes when I ask for help I’m left shaking my head internally, as they point in the general direction of what I wanted help finding.

But overall the experience had been helpful.

You say most of the time... What happens the rest of the time, when you are not able to compensate?