Enjoy The Vacation: Ideas On Safe Wheelchair Travel
Increased emphasis on public accessibility for disabled people has opened up a whole new world for easier wheelchair travel. From walkways to buildings, people in wheelchairs are experiencing more freedom.
With more ramps, curb cuts, elevators, wider doorways and automatic door openers in public buildings, disabled people are encountering fewer obstacles. Airplanes, buses, trains and taxis are now better able to accommodate wheelchairs. This is due in part to the awareness of the needs of the disabled because of strong advocacy groups.
There are still many things to consider when making travel arrangements for disabled. With the increased public awareness, disabled people are discovering a whole new world beyond the confinement of their wheelchairs. They’re able to do more, go more places without running into obstacles. However, some advance planning still needs to be done when making arrangements to travel long distances.
Particularly if the holiday destination is in a third world country or remote area such as in parts of Africa, the destination should be scouted out. Check out the hotel and the airlines. What other facilities are in the area that you may need. Where are the hospitals and can you easily fill any prescriptions you might require.
Rather than book your hotel through the Internet, call your hotel personally to inquire about accessibility and door widths in the room. Ask for a confirmation number or code as proof of your booking. This rarely, happens, but sometimes hotels overbook and can give your room away or deny that you even made a reservation.
Services for disabled passengers vary from airline to airline. Make phone calls to check on provisions made by the airline for wheelchairs. Ensure that you can access the plane in your own wheelchair, or if not, what type of service do they provide. Will they stow your wheelchair in the luggage compartment and what assurances can they give you that your chair will not be damaged? Find out what the airline’s policy is for lost or stolen luggage, which may include your wheelchair.
Some airlines ask for a fit-to-travel certificate or a note from your doctor about your health. Your doctor should give you a note just to be on the safe side. It should also include a list of approved medications. This will assist in getting through customs or security with a minimum of disruption if you are found to be carrying prescription drugs.
Make sure you have proper travel insurance. This can’t be emphasized enough. This is key because often those bound to a wheelchair may have compromised immune systems making them vulnerable to all manner of viruses. There is also the possibility that a fall from the wheelchair could occur.
