How do blind people use walking sticks to walk?

Walking sticks, also known as canes, assist blind people in navigating their surroundings and maintaining balance while walking. Here's how blind individuals use walking sticks effectively:

1. Basic Technique:

- The walking stick is held in the dominant hand, with the hand positioned near the handle and the elbow slightly bent.

- The tip of the walking stick should extend about an arm's length in front of the person, pointing slightly to the side.

- As they move forward, the blind individual swings the walking stick in an arc in front of them.

- The user listens attentively for feedback through the stick, such as sounds or vibrations, to detect changes in the ground texture, surface irregularities, or obstacles.

2. Touch and Sensing:

- The walking stick taps on the ground, alerting the blind person to changes in terrain, such as curbs, steps, holes, or uneven surfaces.

- They pay attention to the tactile sensations transmitted through the stick to sense different types of surfaces, such as pavement, grass, gravel, or carpet.

3. Auditory Cues:

- Blind individuals use the sound created when the walking stick tip makes contact with various objects to gain information. For instance, a hollow sound might indicate an empty space, while a dull thud may signify a solid object.

4. Developing Cognitive Maps:

- Over time, blind people develop a mental representation (a cognitive map) of their surroundings based on the information gathered through their walking stick and other senses. This map helps them confidently navigate familiar routes.

5. Spatial Orientation:

- The walking stick helps maintain spatial orientation by providing feedback about the left and right sides of the body. This assists in moving in the desired direction and avoiding collisions with obstacles.

6. Overcoming Obstacles:

- The stick acts as a probe to detect obstacles that might be slightly above the ground, such as low branches, signs, or parked vehicles. By anticipating these obstructions, the blind person can safely avoid them.

7. Balance and Stability:

- The walking stick provides stability and support,尤其是在不平坦的地面上。它可以幫助視障人士保持平衡並防止跌倒。

8. Gaining Confidence:

- Using a walking stick boosts the confidence of blind people as they navigate their environment more independently and explore new places.

9. Training and Practice:

- Blind individuals receive training from mobility instructors to master the proper techniques of using a walking stick effectively. Practice helps them become proficient and comfortable in various situations.

It's important to note that blind people may also use other assistive devices, such as guide dogs, in conjunction with walking sticks to enhance their mobility and independence.