Can we please normalise telling people that aren't completely blind that it's totally ok to use a cane. I see so many people struggle because they don't think they're "blind enough" to use one, but they're struggling not to bump into things and get hurt.

Same for braille. If you have to read in size 72 and you constantly have a headache because of this, braille is a valid option.

So please, don't tell your family member that they "aren't blind enough" or that they're "doing great" because they still try and see. Being blind is not bad, using different tools is not a sign of failure.

It's ok if a person reads print sometimes and braille at other times. It's ok if someone uses a cane, but reads a map visually on their phone. They're not a faker, or "giving up". They're doing what's best for them, and are probably safer and less exhausted because of it.

This goes for blind people. Can we stop gatekeeping who has access to these tools. Don't blame someone with low vision for using a cane because it might make a member of the public think you can see a bit, blame that person for not considering that all blind people are different.