Guide Dog or Assistive Tech:
What's Right for You?
Are you wondering whether a guide dog is right for you, or do you prefer using assistive technology for navigation? Today, there are multiple options for blind and visually impaired individuals seeking greater independence. Let’s start by discussing the essential steps before getting a guide dog, followed by introducing accessible technology that can enhance your mobility.
Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Training: The First Step
Before applying for a guide dog, you must complete Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training with a certified instructor. This training teaches you how to properly use a white cane, a crucial skill whether or not you choose to get a guide dog. Your instructor will guide you through:
- Selecting the correct cane length for your height
- Mastering constant contact or tapping techniques while walking
- Navigating safely indoors and outdoors, detecting obstacles and surface changes
- Understanding traffic flow, crossing streets safely, and using accessible pedestrian signals
- Learning stair navigation, including depth perception and safe stepping techniques
- Boarding and navigating public transportation confidently
- Walking through crowded areas without collisions
Upon completing your O&M training, request a certificate of completion—even if you're not ready for a guide dog yet. Some guide dog schools require at least two years of independent cane use before accepting applicants.
Choosing a Guide Dog School
Ready to apply for a guide dog? There are only 12 guide dog schools in the U.S., each with a waitlist. Just because a school is nearby doesn't guarantee acceptance. Schools carefully select their applicants based on various criteria.
To begin:
- Contact schools via phone or email to request an application
- Ask if they accept standardized applications from other schools to streamline the process
- Be prepared to submit documents from your doctor, eye specialist, and personal references
- Provide videos demonstrating your daily mobility skills, including walking with your cane, navigating stairs, using public transit, and crossing streets
- Detail your walking routes, distances, and frequency
The Evaluation Process
If a school is interested in your application, they will send an evaluator to assess your home environment and mobility skills. During this visit, you will participate in Juno training—a simulation where the evaluator holds the front of a guide dog harness while you practice issuing commands.
The process requires patience, but with the proper preparation, you can increase your chances of getting matched with a guide dog that suits your lifestyle.
Whether you choose a guide dog or explore accessible navigation technology, the goal remains: greater independence, safety, and confidence in your daily life.
Image of 2 hands holding a guide harness during a Juno training lesson.
Training at a Guide Dog School: What to Expect
Training at a guide dog school typically lasts 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the institution. Most guide dog schools provide their dogs free of charge, but some—like The Seeing Eye—charge a small fee.
Your training will take place:
On-campus, where you'll learn how to work with your guide dog
In the surrounding city, exposing you to real-world environments
At home (optional for some schools), where you practice in your daily surroundings
It’s important to note that attending a guide dog school does not guarantee you will receive a dog. During training, some individuals may also realize that a guide dog is not the best fit for their lifestyle.
Adjusting to Life With a Guide Dog
Once home, your guide dog will need time to adjust to new scents, surroundings, and routines. Be prepared for an adjustment period and a legal ownership transition—for the first year after graduation, the dog remains the property of the school, and there are rules to follow during this period.
I'm not interested in a Guide Dog. Explore Assistive Technology Instead
A guide dog isn’t for everyone, and that’s completely okay! Thanks to cutting-edge assistive technology, visually impaired individuals can navigate independently, go shopping, and explore the world safely—without a dog.
Smart Canes for the Visually Impaired
Your smart cane can answer anything and everything to make traveling more simple and enjoyable! Get turn-by-turn navigation, find public transport options, and explore nearby points of interest with a simple push of a button on your smart cane.
Obstacle Detection:
-
It uses sensors (ultrasonic, infrared, or LiDAR) to detect obstacles at head, chest, and ground levels—beyond what a regular white cane can detect.
-
Navigation Assistance:
-
Some models include GPS, voice guidance, or haptic feedback for real-time navigation, helping users reach specific destinations more confidently.
Object Recognition:
-
Advanced versions often use AI and camera systems to identify objects, text, or faces.
Fall Prevention:
-
Alerts users to drop-offs, stairs, or uneven ground, reducing the risk of tripping or falling.
Connectivity:
-
Many connect to smartphones via Bluetooth, enabling features like emergency alerts, route planning, or calling contacts.
Customizable Feedback:
-
Users can often choose vibrations, sounds, or voice feedback, depending on what works best.
Increased Confidence and Independence:
-
With enhanced awareness of the environment, users may feel safer exploring new places or traveling alone.
-
-
-
-
-
-
Disadvantages of a Smart Cane:
Cost:
-
It can be expensive compared to traditional white canes, ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars.
Battery Dependency:
-
Requires regular charging. If the battery dies mid-use, the innovative features stop working.
Complexity:
-
It can have a learning curve. Not all users are comfortable or familiar with tech, especially older adults.
Durability and Maintenance:
-
They are more delicate than regular canes due to electronic components. Repairs or replacements can be costly.
Weather Sensitivity:
-
Some smart sensors may not function well in extreme weather like heavy rain, fog, or snow.
Over-Reliance on Technology:
-
Users who become too dependent on smart features might struggle if the device malfunctions.
Size or Weight:
-
Some models are bulkier or heavier due to added tech, which can affect ease of use.
-
-
-
-
-
-
Obstacle detection is limited – It only detects objects at waist level and above, so low obstacles like curbs and potholes still require traditional cane techniques.
O&M training is essential – Users should undergo professional O&M training before using a smart cane to maximize safety.
It is not a substitute for good technique; it is designed to complement, not replace, traditional cane skills.
Smart canes aren’t for everyone—just like guide dogs. Even with a guide dog, there are still limitations; for instance, they might not notice low-hanging branches or overgrown bushes. That’s where wearable accessible tech (see below) can help fill in the gaps. Currently, guide dog harnesses don’t offer the kind of obstacle detection that wearable devices can provide—but hopefully, that will change in the future.
Wearable Accessible Technology for the Visually Impaired
Technology is evolving rapidly, and wearable assistive devices are becoming more advanced. Here are some must-have apps and tools that enhance daily independence for the blind and visually impaired:
Phone Apps That Improve Accessibility
TapTapSee (iOS & Android) – A free AI-powered object identification app that uses your camera to describe objects aloud.
Be My Eyes (iOS & Android) – Connects you with sighted volunteers for real-time assistance.
Seeing AI (iOS only) – A Microsoft AI app that identifies people, objects, and text using your smartphone’s camera.
Lookout (Android’s version of Seeing AI) – Provides similar AI-powered object recognition for Android users.
EyeNote (iOS & Android) – Helps identify U.S. currency for the blind and visually impaired.
Haptic Navigation (iOS & Android) – Uses vibrations for eyes-free, ears-free, and hands-free navigation.
Mobility Tools: From Tech to No Tech
When navigating the world with vision loss, there’s a whole spectrum of tools — from high-tech gadgets to classic, reliable solutions. Each person’s needs and preferences are different, and that’s the beauty of it: there’s no wrong choice. Not all helpful tools require fancy technology. Whether you're exploring advanced screen readers or simple household adaptations, there are solutions to fit every comfort level and lifestyle. Here's a breakdown of high-tech, low-tech, and no-tech tools to help you thrive.
-
High Tech: GPS apps, smart canes with sensors, and wearable devices offer real-time data and guidance.
-
Mid-Tech: Guide dogs provide mobility assistance with added companionship.
-
Low to No Tech: The traditional white cane remains one of the most widely used and trusted tools for safe, independent travel.
Whether you're into innovation or prefer something simple and direct, the key is to find what works best for you.
Traditional White Cane: Timeless, Simple, and Effective
While technology and guide dogs offer exciting and advanced mobility options, the traditional white cane remains a tried-and-true tool for many people who are blind or visually impaired. It's lightweight, portable, and always ready — no batteries, no training period, just pure function.
Remember: You Are Capable and Independent
Being visually impaired does not mean being limited. Whether you choose a guide dog or assistive technology, you have the tools to navigate the world safely and confidently—just like everyone else.