OSH Security Practice Test

While patrolling a mall as a security guard you come across an elderly woman who appears lost. As you approach the woman you realize that the woman is holding a white cane. What would this indicate to you?

1. The woman had purchased a discount cane from a store in the mall

2. The woman may have limited vision and perhaps got disoriented

3. The woman appears to prefer white canes

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: The woman may have limited vision and perhaps got disoriented

The correct response highlights that the presence of a white cane typically signifies that the individual may have limited vision or is visually impaired. White canes are widely recognized as a tool that assists people with visual impairments in navigating their environment safely. When you encounter someone holding a white cane, it's essential to approach the situation with an understanding that they may require assistance or guidance, as they might feel disoriented in an unfamiliar setting like a mall. Other choices do not provide an accurate interpretation of the context. For instance, the idea that she purchased a discount cane does not take into account the widely accepted significance of the white cane in relation to vision impairment. Similarly, suggesting that the woman appears to prefer white canes discounts the primary function of the cane as a mobility aid rather than a simple personal choice. Thus, recognizing the implications of her using a white cane is crucial in determining how to assist her effectively.