In the context of OandM, what is the purpose of a white cane?

The purpose of a white cane in the context of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training is primarily to detect obstacles and enhance navigation skills for individuals with visual impairments. The cane acts as a tactile tool, allowing the user to sense their environment by feeling for objects, changes in terrain, and detecting gaps or spaces that can be navigated safely. This tactile feedback is crucial for understanding the surrounding space and for making informed decisions while moving through different environments.

Additionally, using a white cane fosters greater independence and confidence in mobility, as individuals can reliably gather information about their surroundings, which helps in planning and executing travel routes effectively. The cane does not serve primarily as a tool to indicate visual impairment to others, enhance auditory awareness, or act as a personal identification tool; its core function remains focused on improving an individual's ability to navigate safely and independently.