Blind and Visually Impaired Community
↑
20
↓
a quick rant (self.Blind)
submitted by DeeDeegc
Ok so my cane arrived today and I hate it. My vision loss has thrown me into a bit of a financial situation. I had to go cheap because I needed one but couldn't afford the higher end options. I think I may have gone too cheap though. Even then it is what I could afford at the moment. I ordered it a few days ago at $13ish on Amazon. I was nervous but a little excited. It would be great to not kick/step on stuff anymore. It showed up early today.
I don't know what I was expecting but this is not it. The pictures looked very different to me. I pulled it out of the package to check it out. It's light which is good but maybe too light. It's short. Not much of a surprise, I'm a tall person but I still feel it would be short for a shorter person. The poles clack in place when you drop it out but feel loose when you sweep the cane. The handle is hard rubber and feels rough. The wrist strap is not large enough to wrap the tubes but seems too tight to use on the wrist. Then the tip is a rubber cane tip like you would find on weight supporting canes. When I was testing it out this tip grabbed the ground and jabbed me in the gut.
The whole ordeal is putting me off and killed any energy I built up about buying the thing. I thought it would help but to be honest, I prefer holding my fiance's arm. I don't know if I'll use this disappointment or wait until I can afford a better one. I'm going to have to meditate on it for a while and figure out what I want to do. I just needed to vent for a moment. I am so frustrated with this whole process.
I don't know what I was expecting but this is not it. The pictures looked very different to me. I pulled it out of the package to check it out. It's light which is good but maybe too light. It's short. Not much of a surprise, I'm a tall person but I still feel it would be short for a shorter person. The poles clack in place when you drop it out but feel loose when you sweep the cane. The handle is hard rubber and feels rough. The wrist strap is not large enough to wrap the tubes but seems too tight to use on the wrist. Then the tip is a rubber cane tip like you would find on weight supporting canes. When I was testing it out this tip grabbed the ground and jabbed me in the gut.
The whole ordeal is putting me off and killed any energy I built up about buying the thing. I thought it would help but to be honest, I prefer holding my fiance's arm. I don't know if I'll use this disappointment or wait until I can afford a better one. I'm going to have to meditate on it for a while and figure out what I want to do. I just needed to vent for a moment. I am so frustrated with this whole process.
thegoldenhammerbro 33 points 1y ago
Before you spend any money please be aware that you can register with NFB and get a free cane, it doesn’t fold up but They’re fairly good quality for what you get there’s a link at the bottom of this comment that’ll take you right to the form, you also can get one free cane a year
https://freecane.nfb.org//
https://freecane.nfb.org//
VicBulbon 9 points 1y ago
Funnily enough after years of trying Ambuteches and revolutions, I found the NFB one to be my favorite. They are one of the lightest cane around, relatively durable if you know how to handle it, and a good light weight metal tip.
DeeDeegc [OP] 6 points 1y ago
I was investigating the link, I didn't know this was something I had to measure for but I will be filling out the request form for sure.
thegoldenhammerbro 3 points 1y ago
My only problem was that they don’t fold so they’re a bit of a pain to carry around when not in use
DeeDeegc [OP] 5 points 1y ago
Thank you, I hadn't heard about this resource yet. I will definitely look into it.
thegoldenhammerbro 2 points 1y ago
Yeah, take a look at their website, it’s an ansxjng resource
BenandGracie 10 points 1y ago
That thing is not a wrist strap. That is to help keep the cane folded. You should never put that over your wrist while using your cane. Have you had mobility training yet?
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 1y ago
That makes sense. Is there a trick to wrapping it on the cane though?
BenandGracie 2 points 1y ago
It should be like a loop. Fold the cane then loop it over the end. You just let it hang when you have the cane unfolded.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
It did not function properly. I'm going to try for a refund.
BenandGracie 5 points 1y ago
You may have gotten an ID cane. Those aren’t made to be used for mobility. They are just used to identify you as a blind person.
thatawkwardcosplayer 7 points 1y ago
Please get the free NFB cane! You can even use ball tips on them once the flat ring comes off. Also they have mobility using guides but definitely get proper training (it’s free in the USA, Brazil, Canada and Mexico). And I think most of the EU has programs as well!
codeplaysleep 1 points 1y ago
Where can you get other tips to fit the NFB cane besides the metal glide tip? The holes on the slip-on Ambutech ones are too big in diameter to fit the cane. I've been looking for a different style tip for my NFB cane for a while.
thatawkwardcosplayer 2 points 1y ago
Oh! I just stuffed the loose parts with foam then duct tape, held up so far for 4 months!
codeplaysleep 1 points 1y ago
Hmm, I have some UV resin here, too - I bet I could use that.
Bsmith0799 7 points 1y ago
Even just getting a slip-on rolling ball tip may help you feel drastically different about it, or a different slip on tip that is potentially compatible with that cane.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
I'll give that a shot. This one is ridiculous. Did you have troubles getting your first cane?
Bsmith0799 3 points 1y ago
No, but I only really need one after dark. And I really don't go out after dark so on the rare occasion I'm caught in a situation I need it, any mild frustrations aren't SUPER bad to just deal with until I get home
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
That's understandable. Night time can be dangerous.
Ancient_Ad_5809 6 points 1y ago
Great suggestions in the comments here, make sure you are looking into services for your area as well, if you're in the US. I was able to get my cane for free through my state's services for the blind, and the cane I got from them is waaaay better than the cane I got through Amazon (probably got the same one you did honestly).
Also, definitely look into getting some mobility training. If you're in the US, your state should have services for the blind and it'll help you a huge amount. Best of luck to you!! Don't give up!!!
Also, definitely look into getting some mobility training. If you're in the US, your state should have services for the blind and it'll help you a huge amount. Best of luck to you!! Don't give up!!!
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Im living in a rural area. The nearest training is 2 hours away and it's been hard for me to get up there. Im hoping I can get to it soon though.
Ancient_Ad_5809 2 points 1y ago
I live in a very rural, out in the ass end of nowhere, in KY. It's pretty cool because a lady who comes and picks me up and we go to a town and practice cane skills, it's really nice.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
I'll have to ask my doctor about that. I would love to learn proper usage and everything.
shortandfatbanana 5 points 1y ago
You should contact your state vocational rehabilitation program. https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/Blind-Services/Pages/Blind-Services-Division.aspx
Iamheno 5 points 1y ago
You know you can get a free one from $1, if you’re in the US. I personally prefer the NFB cane it’s lightweight and responsive like a sports car.
sunflowerdecay 4 points 1y ago
That's a cheap identification cane, not a white cane. I did the same thing.
I did buy a used ambutech cane on ebay, it's very old but does the job. I'm not legally blind yet but need it at times. There's a company that gives away free straight white canes. They don't collapse or fold but are very lightweight and I switched my old canes tip to the same. I forgot the name for the organization though. You need to know what size cane you need based on height and walking speed.
I did buy a used ambutech cane on ebay, it's very old but does the job. I'm not legally blind yet but need it at times. There's a company that gives away free straight white canes. They don't collapse or fold but are very lightweight and I switched my old canes tip to the same. I forgot the name for the organization though. You need to know what size cane you need based on height and walking speed.
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 1y ago
One of the users gave me a link to get a free one. I'm going to fill out the form. I thought I had more time but my vision has declined quicker than I could keep up with.
achromatic_03 4 points 1y ago
I think I got a free one, and it wasn't from the NFB...but it was a long time ago. If you're in the US, most states and some localities have great resources for stuff like this. And even having a case with the state (like a DOR or DVR), they can help cover costs, too.
bradley22 4 points 1y ago
First of all, you don’t put that strap on your wrist.
Second, you might get some use out of mobility training.
Second, you might get some use out of mobility training.
ukifrit 3 points 1y ago
I don’t think you’re supposed to use a cane strapped to your wrist. It can cause injuries.
SiriuslyGranger 2 points 11m ago
I just got my nfb free cane. I have like 7 or 10 of them. They’re free and easy to get. I just got one as tall as I am. More length will never hurt you. I like mine up to my chin or nose I would not get anything shorter than shoulder though. It gives you ample time to react.
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 11m ago
Thanks, I'll make sure to keep that in mind.
SiriuslyGranger 2 points 11m ago
I would mail you one but not sure if it’s the right size and how it’s rather will ship. My shorter ones will fold up but not the longer ones. The only ones I have that fold are 53 and 55 inches. May be a bit short. Nfb canes since they are free will take their sweet old time to get to ya unfortunately. That’s the cost of absolutely free. They set the schedule. Usually 2 weeks to a month. If you want one sooner I can try to get one to you. I have a couple extra 59 inches but they don’t fold and will have to find a box big enough for it.
It’s good practice to keep spares at least one or 2. You don’t have to be siriusly and have about 10 of them. That’s probably not necessary but that means I have enough to give you one at least and if someone really needs one.
It’s good practice to keep spares at least one or 2. You don’t have to be siriusly and have about 10 of them. That’s probably not necessary but that means I have enough to give you one at least and if someone really needs one.
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 11m ago
I appreciate the gesture. I don't mind waiting a bit though. It gives me another excuse to hold my fiance and I don't think she minds leading me around. In the mean time I'm just kind of bringing this tiny cane for ID purposes. I figure it'll make crossing the street a little safer when I'm out alone. I think I'm more upset at myself for not researching a little better. I just about have things wrapped up with disability though and I am going to break down and make the two hour journey for mobility training soon. I'm a bit nervous but I think it'll be a good thing.
SiriuslyGranger 1 points 11m ago
Sure not a problem. When the 6 months is up order yourself another one and then six months later you can a third. Every 6 months. Even if not necessary go get one for the second or third time so you can have a few spares. Or you can buy them. The best one that is out there is a place called dcanes they are very much like the nfb ones that are free. But way more nimble and flexible I can actually bend it and it won’t break.
And that’s really good to hear. Maybe go to a center an nfb one maybe? Or a state one and get some training or have other trainers come to your house. Work with blindfolds to anticipate how to operate when you will become totally blind.
And that’s really good to hear. Maybe go to a center an nfb one maybe? Or a state one and get some training or have other trainers come to your house. Work with blindfolds to anticipate how to operate when you will become totally blind.
bluskyebaby 2 points 1y ago
You need mobility training OP. I agree with others. Get with your local blind service agency or vocational rehabilitation. Many times they can come to you.
PrincessDie123 2 points 1y ago
Yeah I’ve been seeing ads for those on Amazon the company doesn’t know how to make white canes they look like garbage. I hope you leave a review on the item you ordered so others know how crap it is. Ambutech has its own website And I’m sure the Revolution brand has one too somewhere those are two good brands.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
I'll have to check those out when I get a little money.
PrincessDie123 2 points 1y ago
Yeah for sure, they’re not cheap but overall it’s worth it. In the meantime if you can find and orientation and mobility specialist they might have some you can borrow to find what you like.
valuesandnorms 2 points 1y ago
When I bought my first cane I didn’t know what I didn’t know and got a short ID cane which wasn’t much help. When I had to get a new one I researched and got one that was a much better fit for me both height wise and the tip. It was less than $30 on Amazon.
BaBaBroke 2 points 1y ago
Return it to Amazon. Get a free came for now from the National Federation of the Blind at nfb.org. it is a lightweight cane, carbon fiber I think, with a stainless steel tip the size of a quarter. The free one does not fold. But they sell that type and a collapsinging type. They have different lengths. I think the rule of thumb is measure to the height of your arm pit shoulder. I think they let you get a free one every six months. Then get training for mobility.
LAZNS_TheSadBlindAce 3 points 1y ago
I wouldn't recommend the collapsing kaleidoscopic ones
I thought they were so cool and got one and it shattered pretty much the moment I tried to use it when somebody kicked it in a school hallway
Foldable ones are best
I mean if you have to get one from nfb instead of a real one
I thought they were so cool and got one and it shattered pretty much the moment I tried to use it when somebody kicked it in a school hallway
Foldable ones are best
I mean if you have to get one from nfb instead of a real one
[deleted] 2 points 1y ago
[deleted]
DeeDeegc [OP] 1 points 1y ago
I should have had my fiance look at it really. I usually ask her to double check things like that.
[deleted] 3 points 1y ago
[deleted]
[deleted] 2 points 1y ago
[deleted]
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
Ok cool, thanks, I'm 6' 2". I think that might work for me.
[deleted] 2 points 1y ago
[deleted]
CloudyBeep 2 points 1y ago
How did you decide on a size? Typically a long cane should reach the user's sternum; some people like theirs longer, but you should never go shorter.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
I thought they were standard or something. My Dr didn't tell me to measure for it or anything like that.
CloudyBeep 1 points 1y ago
In general, doctors are very knowledgeable about the medical aspects of blindness but know very little about the alternative techniques used by blind people. You should ideally not use your cane until you have received orientation and mobility training so that you use it safely and do not develop bad habits.
DeeDeegc [OP] 2 points 1y ago
Yeah that makes sense. It's a lot to juggle sometimes and I tend to get a bit ahead of myself.
CloudyBeep 1 points 1y ago
I recommend that you:
1. Contact your local blindness rehabilitation agency. In addition to learning orientation and mobility, you'll also need to learn independent living skills, assistive technology skills, and also braille if you're interested.
2. To get peer support from other people who are also adjusting to vision loss and blind people who are living independent and successful lives, join your local chapter of the National Federation of the Blind.
1. Contact your local blindness rehabilitation agency. In addition to learning orientation and mobility, you'll also need to learn independent living skills, assistive technology skills, and also braille if you're interested.
2. To get peer support from other people who are also adjusting to vision loss and blind people who are living independent and successful lives, join your local chapter of the National Federation of the Blind.
CosmicBunny97 2 points 1y ago
I believe if you're in the US, the NFB has a free cane program. That might be something to look into. Otherwise, get involved with any vision impairment services in your country or state and see if they can get you a better quality cane.
razzretina 2 points 1y ago
I believe the National Federation of the Blind will send you a free rigid cane and theirs are good quality. I use mine around my apartment building still. A bit awkward to fit it in a car but doable even with a really tall one like mine (65 inches). Get a refund on what you bought off Amazon and save up a little for a proper folding cane, you need something decent with this.
This nonprofit website is run by volunteers.
Please contribute if you can. Thank you!
Our mission is to provide everyone with access to large-
scale community websites for the good of humanity.
Without ads, without tracking, without greed.
scale community websites for the good of humanity.
Without ads, without tracking, without greed.
©2023 HumbleCat Inc • HumbleCat is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Michigan, USA.