i do think that people underestimate how wide of a range "cane user" refers to. like the assumption that a person using a cane is always the least impaired cane user, always has the choice to not use a cane, but uses it totally willingly. could "leave it at home if you don't want to look like a freak" which is a post i've actually seen. or that we don't have to use them in our homes. i use my cane from the moment i get myself out of bed, and i need it to get in/out of chairs. it always has to be in arm's reach for me. or that we don't need accessible entrances because we can walk with them. rather than that stairs are impassible to some cane users.
the truth is that canes are the most accessible mobility aid, in terms of cost, in terms of being able to buy them at kroger or walgreens, in terms of being able to fit them in an economy airline seat. because of that, there is a very wide range of types of disability that result in someone using a cane. not all cane users have a choice in the matter.
