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The benefits of using a ‘I have low vision’ badge or an ID cane
For some, just being identified as being blind or having low vision is a big step. It might feel like you’re advertising your vulnerabilities, or putting a spotlight on yourself. It’s rational to feel like you can be a target for bad behaviour.
But there can be huge benefits to making it more visible that you have vision loss.
For some, just wearing a badge that says ‘I have low vision’ is enough. Others might use an ID cane which looks like a white cane, but doesn’t touch the ground. It’s a visible signal that the person holding it has low vision, and is more eye-catching and prominent than the badge. It can be used to assist with detecting the height of steps, gutters and down drops and offer some lower body protection.
A white ID cane is held off the ground, and is a visible signal that someone has low vision.
Here are some benefits to using low vision identifiers like the badge or an ID cane:
- Assistance comes to you, so you don’t have to ask
These identifiers help the general public make better decisions around you. A driver can spot an ID cane and take extra precaution. People might move out of your path or give you a wider berth when you’re walking. They will use their voice, rather than silently doing something, for instance, they will notify you when you are next in a line or there’s a free seat on the train. It bridges the communication gap and changes people’s actions. - Reduces Misunderstandings
If you bump into someone, they are much more likely to not take it personally if they see a badge or an ID cane. If you spill someone’s drink, it might deescalate the situation quickly. It changes people’s reactions. - Visibility can make for a fairer, more inclusive world
The more people interact with people who are blind or have low vision, the more they will think about changing their actions for good. A restaurant manager might make their menu more accessible by printing it in large print or utilise a QR code so people can use their assistive technology. A car company might add an engine sound to their silent electric vehicles to help notify people on the road. Someone might move a discarded scooter away from the footpath.
Garry Oates, who regularly uses a low vision badge and an ID cane had this to say on his recent holiday.
“I have just been to Darwin for a holiday with the family, and the badge was acknowledged by a Qantas representative as l boarded the plane, and extra assistance offered,” he told us.
“A young lady on the air boat ride offered to help me step on, over seats, and off.
“I was standing in a food court, with my cane, looking at a menu on the wall, and a staff member came up and offered assistance.
“A food truck vendor, commented on how great the badge is.”
He says he isn’t afraid to ask for assistance but the badge and ID cane make for for a much smoother experience.
You can purchase an ‘I have low vision’ badge or an ID cane from our shop at 2 Chandler Hwy, Kew VIC 3101, Mon – Fri 9 am to 5 pm.
We also offer wellbeing workshops where we connect you with others with low vision or blindness to discuss and share experiences. You can call us on 1800 804 805 and request the next workshop date.
