But today, some seniors are finding empowerment through their canes: They're using them as weapons of self-defense through a fighting technique known as "cane fu." "You can carry it anywhere you want.

Students took swings and jabs at a dummy with their canes, all while yelling “Help,” “Call 911,” or a number of other statements to get a bystander’s attention.

Les Johnson and Rebecca Morales practice self-defense techniques known as "Cane Fu" at a self-defense seminar by Club Wolf Pack Fighting and Fitness, Friday, Sept. 19, 2014, at The Neighborhood Place.