HHSC Highlights White Cane Awareness Day

White Cane Awareness Day on Oct. 15 is an opportunity to learn more about community resources available to people with vision loss and celebrate their achievements.

Also known as White Cane Safety Day, the annual observance highlights the white cane as a valuable tool used by people who are visually impaired. The National Federation of the Blind notes that the white cane serves as a symbol of independence and safety.

Numerous events are being held throughout the state in mid-October to celebrate White Cane Awareness Day. Visit whitecaneday.org to find community events happening in your area.

There are numerous resources for people to learn about the accomplishments of those who are blind or visually impaired and tools that can help them:

• The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides a resource sheet in English (PDF) and Spanish (PDF) that discusses general etiquette, safety and guidance to follow when working with older adults with vision loss.
• The HHSC Blind and Visually Impaired webpage lists resources that help people who are blind and visually impaired reach their goals.
• The Texas Workforce Commission Older Individuals who are Blind Program helps people 55 and older who have vision loss. A tips and tools webpage has information on how blind and visually impaired people can complete everyday tasks like handling money, traveling, using the phone and more.