Sep
30

Walking Aids for the Visually Impaired

The visually impaired are no longer looked upon as a burden on their families. Most of them are successfully pursuing their careers and have scaled great heights. Mobility aids including walking aids for the visually impaired have been great support in helping them.

People with impaired vision can choose between the ultra cane and Vistac cane as walking aids.  Both canes are different in principle and technology.  They can be used with or without the long cane. A mobility assessment will help you decide on which is the best walking aid for you.

The Vistac cane was invented in Germany. It is comprised of a handle with a laser beam unit, a cane shaft and a roller tip.  It uses a laser beam that helps to correctly detect the objects in front of the cane in a highly efficient manner. The Ultra cane was launched as a result of development work at the Leeds University in the late 1990’s. It is comprised of a molded handle which has two ultrasonic beam sensors, a carbon graphite cane shaft and a cane tip. The ultra sonic beam sensors will help locate any objects just like a sonar device.

The visually impaired can choose from a wide range of walking aids previously unavailable to them. We have definitely moved a step forward in helping them gain orientation and mobility. Based on a consultation with a doctor, you can choose a walking aid that will most efficiently help you gain mobility.