posted by ama on Apr 21
Local governments are implementing new laws regarding accessibility of walkways and buildings for the disabled, making the world at large more accessible for the disabled and wheelchair travel.
People with limited mobility are finding that elevated ramps, curb cuts, automatic door openers and wider doorways are now the norm. With few obstacles in their way and public transportation now offering features for handicapped riders, a wheelchair is not the impediment it once was. Advocates for the disabled lobbying for increased accessibility have paved the way for a new generation of wheelchair travelers.
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 despite disabilities.
The accessibility of your destination, particularly if it’s a third world country or remote area, needs to be researched, as does your hotel, airline and accessibility to medication and medical facilities. The accessibility of your airline and hotel has to be researched as does access to medical facilities, including pharmacies if you require prescription medication
Booking your vacation online is convenient but there are questions specific to your needs that you won’t find answers to on a website. Like, can the doorways of the hotel rooms accommodate a wheelchair? Can you access the front door with your wheelchair? Some hotels even have rooms for the handicapped, and if they do, make sure you have a reservation number. It would be horrible to book a room and arrive only to find they have no record of your reservation. You need proof.
When booking your airline, not all offer the same time of service. Accessibility is generally not an issue but make sure that wheelchair space hasn’t been given to another traveler. 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?
Does your airline require a doctor’s note listing the prescription drugs that you’re taking? This would be a smart thing to do regardless of the airline’s policy. If you’re crossing a border or even if you’re being screened at security, you can avoid needless scrutiny about any drugs you’re carrying if you have a note from your doctor.
Don’t leave home without adequate travel insurance. It’s good practice for any traveler, but for someone in a wheelchair, insurance is even more important. You need to be covered if you should become injured as a result of a fall. Food-borne illnesses and vulnerability to new viruses can also be a concern. All it takes to have a safe, healthy holiday is some advance planning.
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