Things you should know about wheeling at Disney

[KPeveler]

I thought I would create a list of helpful hints for people using a wheelchair or ECV for the first time at Disney (either renting there, or bringing their own)... not so much the FAQs, like where to rent, but things like these:

Put suncreen on the tops of your feet (if you're wearing sandals) and your legs/knees (if you are wearing shorts).

Bring a towel to cover the seat - the rented chairs/ECVs are vinyl

Cover the handles of the ECV when you get up for a ride if it is in the sun - otherwise you can burn your hands when you get back!

ECV "Economy" models may be smaller and easier to drive, but that can also mean the battery is smaller - be sure to ask!

If you are bringing a chair from home, decide if all aprts are necessary. I.e. if you dont think you will need the arm rests on your scooter, take them off! it will be one less thing for the airline to break.

Any thing else? i am hoping to share this list with other boards i am on (medical/disability boards, not disney ones) in an effort to encourage more DISers!

[lovespoohbear]

if you need something on your own wheelchair and you are flying, if it comes off of the chair take it off and bring it in the plane with you. ie footrests, headrests, control box if electric wheelchair. oh yeah if your headrest is screwed on REMEMBER to screw the screw as tight as you can if the headrest is taken off and brought on the plane. when i got my chair back once arriving home the screw black bracket so they found the screw in belly of plane and bracket on the tarmac in the dark in the rain. that was luck:rotfl:

[Mickiethepooh]

Be sure to bring a clear shower cap to go over your control box in case of rain. and if it is your own be sure you have name and address labels on every part.

[SueM in MN]

1) Check all the screws and bolts on the wheelchair for tightness before getting on the plane and after you land. The vibrations of air travel can shake things loose.

2) Bring along some extra bolts and screws in case of need.

3) Engineering at your resort can be helpful with things like screwdrivers, allen wrenches, tire pumps, etc.

4) A small laundry bag works really well to 'corrale' wheelchair pieces for carrying onto the airplane. After use, it can be folded very small to fit into a backpack or suitcase pocket.

[jaxpooh]

Any ideas for carrying crutches around on the ECV? I rented from caremobility and they do not offer crutch holders.

[pugdog]

Any ideas for carrying crutches around on the ECV? I rented from caremobility and they do not offer crutch holders.

Bunge cord

[lovespoohbear]

Bunge cord
i was gonna say the same thing. bungy cords are good for a lot of stuff.

[MightyMom]

About vinyl seats on wheelchairs.

When we ordered my son's chair I opted for the vinyl seat. BIG mistake! Although it cleans up easily.... it is not the most comfortable.... and it does NOT breathe in the heat.

On both trips to WDW in June DS broke out with a terrible heat rash on his back. The first year we had to use benadryl cream from the resort store.... the second year we came prepared with our own.

So if you have a vinyl seat. Be prepared.

[Mickiethepooh]

Electric scooters, BRING AN EXTRA KEY, better yet two extras

[kimbac3]

I can't second the sunscreen enough!!

Last Saturday I spent the day at an all outdoor truck show. Well apparently Hershey and WDW have more shade because I have never got sunburned at those places. The truck show...my thighs and shins were burnt to a crisp!! I'm still sore! It was awful. I didn't realize the burn until the end of the day when we found some shadows to take refuge in.

This trip I'll be putting on sunscreen before I leave the room AND throughout the day!!

Oh well, lesson learned!:upsidedow

Kimba

[OneLittleSpark]

Don't plan too rigorously. I know some people are all for detailed trip plans, and they do have their merits, but there are times when you just need to go with the flow. If you're travelling in a wheelchair, especially if you also have other health problems tied in, you need to be able to run the day as your body dictates. Maybe that will mean rolling all they way through from early opening at MK to the close of PI, but don't count on it.

Instead of just putting a normal towel over the seat, you might want to buy a really cheap towel, and customise it so it fits. OK, so when I say customise, I actually mean sew a bit of velcro or a couple of poppers onto it so it will fit the chair and not slip off, but you could also decorate it if you wanted.

Hang back a little after busy events to allow the crowds to clear. If you've just been to a night time event, such as a parade or fireworks, be prepared to wait a little while before fighting your way to the exit. I've tried battling the crowds in a chair and let's just say, the view isn't pretty (nor is being stepped over, kicked, shoved or nearly burnt by the guy who thinks the no-smoking rule doesn't apply to him). The shops normally stay open while the park's clearing, so have a wander around them, buy a snack, use the restroom, admire the view, whatever you can think of to kill some time before you head for the exit (and the bus queues).

Find the location of the wheelchair parade viewing areas on the maps. These areas magically change your view from a row of backsides to Mickey Mouse.

Be prepared for people with 'holiday head'. No, this isn't a form of hat hair acquired when wearing Mickey ears, this is an odd phenomenon that causes people who are probably perfectly reasonable in the 'real world' to become oblivious to their surroundings. I can almost guarantee that at some point during your trip you will encounter at least one of the following:

:confused: Someone stop directly in front of you on a down hill slope (probably followed by a gormless stare at you, trying to figure out why you just squealed to a halt behind them)

:confused: Someone stand directly in front of you, blocking your view (they will normally move if you ask).

:confused: Someone pull their small child (almost) straight under your wheels (I advise people to stop if they can, otherwise it'll make a mess of their chair).

:confused: Someone making a 'smart' comment about how nice it must be to sit down all day / jump all the queues (which doesn't always happen) / skip the bus queue (again, not always the case) / stare at people's backsides all day... oh wait, hang on, they don't normally say that one.


So, have a great trip, ignore the Holiday Heads and enjoy a liberal sprinkling of fairy dust!


WARNING: The writer of this piece has developed a severe case of tongue-in-cheek syndrome, apply a liberal pinch of salt to some comments ;)

[LindaBabe]

WARNING: The writer of this piece has developed a severe case of tongue-in-cheek syndrome, apply a liberal pinch of salt to some comments
__________________


As an ecv user, If you don't develop this syndrome, you could easily KILL some fool out of sheer frustration!

[Mickiethepooh]

As an ecv user, If you don't develop this syndrome, you could easily KILL some fool out of sheer frustration!

It's the guy walking with a lit cigerette swinging it into my face that I like the least.

There's a suggestion carry a fire extinguisher!!!
http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/bb101/Arwenmark/jackwithhat.jpg

[Mason7AK]

Buy one of those umbrellas that attach to the wheelchair - they can be a lifesaver for keeping the sun off your little one's face! We have one for each of our kids chairs - bought them both at WDW at the kiosk's that sell the pretty umbrellas for little girls - ask the CM at the kiosk about the wheelchair umbrellas and they usually have them, even if they are not out on display. The stem is bendable and so you can position them however you need to for keeping the sun at bay! They just clamp right on to the handlebars, and are lightweight and easy to pack at the end of your trip.
Angela

[OneLittleSpark]

Buy one of those umbrellas that attach to the wheelchair - they can be a lifesaver for keeping the sun off your little one's face! We have one for each of our kids chairs - bought them both at WDW at the kiosk's that sell the pretty umbrellas for little girls - ask the CM at the kiosk about the wheelchair umbrellas and they usually have them, even if they are not out on display. The stem is bendable and so you can position them however you need to for keeping the sun at bay! They just clamp right on to the handlebars, and are lightweight and easy to pack at the end of your trip.
Angela

Just make sure you take it down if there's an electric storm!

[OneLittleSpark]

Just a little bump to see if anyone else has anything to add :goodvibes

[Haley Whippet]

If you are new to ECV's do test drive them, Practice backing up and going Beep Beep Beep when you do:rotfl2:
Always have a good answer in mind for the stupid remarks you will receive.
I have cool Eeyore stickers and a "Texas License plate" on my front basket.
I named my scooter Eeyore. I think it makes it look friendly.
Lastly, Enjoy the ride and don't let the doo doo heads get ya down...:hippie:
Deb

[OneLittleSpark]

I just thought: waterproofs! Remember that your legs will be much more exposed; not only to the sun, but also to the rain. Ponchos are good for keeping you dry, but don't expect to push a manual chair with one on. Oh, and make sure you tuck the waterproofing all around you, as the water will often pool underneath you. I know from experience that sitting in wet shorts for the whole day is not fun!

[alizesmom]

I just thought: waterproofs! Remember that your legs will be much more exposed; not only to the sun, but also to the rain. Ponchos are good for keeping you dry, but don't expect to push a manual chair with one on. Oh, and make sure you tuck the waterproofing all around you, as the water will often pool underneath you. I know from experience that sitting in wet shorts for the whole day is not fun!

Is there some way I can adapt one so I can push DS while it rains? How do I prevent the pooling of water? Karen

[Beccabunny]

These are the kind of threads I love to see here. No fights, no personal attacks, no accusations, just lots of really great hints and strategies.. Nobody in my family uses a wheelchair (although DD will use a stroller as wheelchair on our next trip) but I read these theads for awareness. And it's so encouraging to see this kind of helpful attitude.

[OneLittleSpark]

If he's being pushed, then you won't have any problems - they only arise if you're trying to push yourself in a chair. Just make sure he has the poncho tucked all around him and that there are no trailing edges that could get caught in the wheels. As long as he's sitting on the back of the poncho the pooling won't matter, as all the water will go underneath it, not onto his clothes. If you have a spare one, you could also wrap one around his lower legs to stop them getting wet, but you'll have to be extra careful about trailing edges then (I've caught a poncho in the front wheels before and it takes ages to untangle everything).

Good luck keeping dry! :thumbsup2

[alizesmom]

If he's being pushed, then you won't have any problems - they only arise if you're trying to push yourself in a chair. Just make sure he has the poncho tucked all around him and that there are no trailing edges that could get caught in the wheels. As long as he's sitting on the back of the poncho the pooling won't matter, as all the water will go underneath it, not onto his clothes. If you have a spare one, you could also wrap one around his lower legs to stop them getting wet, but you'll have to be extra careful about trailing edges then (I've caught a poncho in the front wheels before and it takes ages to untangle everything).

Good luck keeping dry! :thumbsup2

Thanks, actually I think one "one size fits all" poncho will cover him and his chair LOL :thumbsup2 Karen

[BillSears]

As a wheelchair user I thought I'd chime in. For me I like the poncho to cover the entire wheelchair including the handle bars in the back. When you sit on the poncho the rain goes down the back of your chair and when it stops raining the back and cushion are now soaked. I actually manage to push my wheelchair while wearing a poncho. I'm moving at about half speed but that's really close to the normal walking speed of people at WDW especially in the rain. The only problem I have with it is my feet get wet, but then that happens to people who walk in the rain too.

Here's a quick picture I took to show how I wear it. I had plenty of time to set the camera with a 10 second delay then move away and position myself to take the picture. You can move with a poncho on if you're a full time wheelchair user.
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2/BillSears/Poncho.jpg

E.T.A.
I just reread my post and realized the "full time wheelchair user" remark might be offensive to some. I really meant that I have no problem using a poncho but of course I can't speak for how easy/hard it would be for others.

[Michigan]

Oldest DD has this wheelchair rain poncho/slicker and loves it because of the sleeves no soaked arms or shirt sleeves.
http://www.cozycoats.com/CCslicker.htm

[Cheshire Figment]

If it rains and I am in my ECV I will use a poncho to cover my body with the front over the handlebars to keep the control system dry and the back will go over the seat. Because of the way I sit I stay almost completely dry.

Now all I need to do is get windshield wipers for my glasses.

[madenon]

Cheshire if you find the wipers; give me a heads up. ;)

A quick question for you and Bill (and others with experience); those poncho's, are that the one that come down to about knee-heigth if you were standing or more like ankle-heigth? In my manual I could manage without, thanks to big umbrella's and needing to be pushed anyway, but better not try that one with a pwc. I don't mind getting soaked myself and having to change too bad, but my chair is done with normall fabric so that would mean the chair being soaked all day. And if there's one thing I do mind it's sitting on a soaked anything. Brrr. So at the moment I'm trying to learn as much as I can within the next 14 days and the special wc-rainwear is just way too expensive if you ask me (about $135,- overhere, I mean; come on!)

[Michigan]

special wc-rainwear is just way too expensive if you ask me (about $135,- overhere, I mean; come on!)

If you click on the link in my post above you will see a really great wheelchair rainwear for $35.

[Cheshire Figment]

Madenon - The important thing, which you can see in Bill's photo and what I mentioned in my post is when you are seated the poncho not only covers your upper body, but will be over the seat back and it comes down far enough on the sides that the seat will not get wet.It will also cover any sensitive electronics, such as the control box.

To other things to possbily consider. One is to get flexible "slipcovers" to go over the seat and back in case of inclement weather for additional protection. The other is to carry a small plastic shower cap to go over the control box.

[BillSears]

Cheshire if you find the wipers; give me a heads up. ;)


I usually add a baseball cap under the poncho. The bill of the cap helps keep the rain off of my face.

A quick question for you and Bill (and others with experience); those poncho's, are that the one that come down to about knee-heigth if you were standing or more like ankle-heigth?

The poncho I use is a standard WDW Mickey poncho. I'm not sure of the length but I bet someone else here can chime in with how long it is for them.

Madenon, I see you'll be going down to WDW in 2 weeks! I'll be there staying at CSR from 8/30-9/9 so if you see me say Hi!

[madenon]

Hmm, a cap might be an idea. I rather hate them (they keep irritating me), but while at WDW it's a better/easier fix than dragging along cloths for all of the polishing. Would cut down on one souvenir allready, my dad wears them every day and loves them.

Looks like I'll go the poncho-way. From what I can tell from Bill's pic and Cheshire's experience, there should be no problem in getting one big enough to cover both me and the most important parts of the chair. And if they're too small for that overhere (we still tend to make "one size fits all" in a size 10/12 max. :sad2: ), I can very easily pick one up at WDW.

I'll be at CBR from 9-4/9-12. I'll be sure to say hi if I role into you. I'm starting to get that "a kid can't stand the wait and is bouncing allover the place in excitement"-thing going on. Oh well, with my 27 years of age I look just like a 5 year old and get away with it. :lmao:


Thnx for the tip Chesire. I read about the showercap on the DIS earlier, it was one of those "geez, could it really be thát simple!? Gotta buy me a good supply of them, love the idea!". It also made me go "lightbulb moment here" myself. Buy another showercap, put some extra protective stuff in the showercap and tape it shut over my control box for extra protection during the flight.

[OneLittleSpark]

Bill, thank you for correcting me (complete with helpful and informative pictures :) )! I must confess, last time I went to the World I was still mobile enough to be using a rental (a WDW tank) and didn't have the arm strength to push myself much, so my post was more guess work than anything else :blush:. Now that I know it can work, I'll give it a go when I'm there next month. Woohoo, a science experiment :rotfl: !

[pookienoodle]

If it rains and I am in my ECV I will use a poncho to cover my body with the front over the handlebars to keep the control system dry and the back will go over the seat. Because of the way I sit I stay almost completely dry.

Now all I need to do is get windshield wipers for my glasses.

Hi,
here in the UK they sell something called "rainaway" which stops your glasses fogging up.It also turns the rain into bigger droplets so you can see better.
they sell it online or in opticians.
do you have anything similar in the U.S?

[OneLittleSpark]

Sue, next time you're updating the FAQ, could you please put a link to this in there? I think there's some really useful tips that I could have used when I first stared wheeling Disney. Thank you! :goodvibes

[LindaBabe]

In the US it's called RainX - good thought! We have it for our auto windshields but I never thought of my glasses. I've always opted for the large billed hat under my poncho.

Bill, I'll keep my eyes open for you! We'll be at AKL from 9/1 - 9/1 - can't wait can't wait can't WAIT!

[lovetoscrap]

I want to thank you all for the helpful hints and tips. I will keep checking back for more. I new to the world of the wheelchair and ECV and while still mobile will have to use an ECV pretty much full time for the Ladies Meet in Nov. Since I will be on my own (except for my DIS friends) I am a bit worried about it. This will be first time ECVing in the World.

I was thinking about bringing my Waterproof Stroller cover to cover the rental ECV if I leave it outside a ride or restaurant and it looks like rain. Is this practical? Or should I just cover it with a cheap poncho?

I am so glad you told me to bring a towel to cover the seat, I would be miserable in the heat. Any more tips would be appreciated. Especially since it will be my first time and I will be on my own. I am really worried about the busses. I am a bad driver! So far I have taken out several racks of clothes and food at Walmart and Target. I am terrified I am going to run over people or get stuck in places.

[SueM in MN]

Sue, next time you're updating the FAQ, could you please put a link to this in there? I think there's some really useful tips that I could have used when I first stared wheeling Disney. Thank you! :goodvibes
::yes::
I was planning to once it hit a bit more than 3 pages.
So, it will get a link now.

[lyzziesmom]

Quick wheelchair question: My brother recently had a knee replacement and his dr. advised him to use a wheelchair at all times in WDW. However, he can walk short distances. Does he have to bring the chair in lines or can it be left somewhere, like in stroller parking, if the line is short? Also, can he fold it up to bring it on the bus? He doesn't want to stay in it on the buses and take up the space that a full-time wheelchair user might need.

This is all new to us, he does not use a wheelchair at home and will be renting one from an offsite company just for the trip. This thread is very informative, thank you guys so much for posting it! Any practical information about actually using a chair in WDW would be so helpful for us wheelchair newbies.

ETA: Also, if you have any tips for the wheelchair pusher that would be great. None of us have ever had to push a chair before and we're not sure how hard it's going to be to push my 6'4" brother around all day!

Regarding the parade areas and the lines, does my brother have to sit by himself in the parade area and go through the line alone in his chair, or can he bring someone with him? Can he bring more than just the pusher? We are a group of 7 (2 kids) so I don't expect that we can all go together with him.

[SueM in MN]

Does he have to bring the chair in lines or can it be left somewhere, like in stroller parking, if the line is short?Also, can he fold it up to bring it on the bus? He doesn't want to stay in it on the buses and take up the space that a full-time wheelchair user might need.
Wheelchairs can be parked in the stroller area, if he doesn't want to use it in line. There are some things in the disABILITIES FAQs thread that will be helpful to you. One link goes to this thread about boarding rides for someone who might need more time. (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?threadid=273092&perpage=15) There are some things to think about with the rides that have moving walkways that are discussed on that thread.

The FAQs thread also has information about riding the buses with a wheelchair or ECV. A folded wheelchair can be brought on board, but many of the bus drivers will still want to put it in the wheelchair spot and tie it down (those wheelchairs are heavy). Even if you plan to fold it, it is easiest to still bring it thru the back door.
ETA: Also, if you have any tips for the wheelchair pusher that would be great. None of us have ever had to push a chair before and we're not sure how hard it's going to be to push my 6'4" brother around all day!
The main wheelchair pusher may want to get some gloves (the kind that serious bikers or weight lifters use). That helps protect against blisters.
If he is at all fit, he should be able to do some pushing himself, which will help too.

At MK, there is a large hill going downhill from Fantasyland toward the Haunted Mansion area, so it's best to go from Fantasyland to the HM, not the other way around.
In WS at Epcot, there is a hill that goes uphill from France toward the middle of the bridge leading to the UK. Then the hill goes downhill toward the UK.

Some of the hills are quite steep and you don't want to get the wheelchair going too fast - they can get away from you pretty quickly.
Regarding the parade areas and the lines, does my brother have to sit by himself in the parade area and go through the line alone in his chair, or can he bring someone with him? Can he bring more than just the pusher? We are a group of 7 (2 kids) so I don't expect that we can all go together with him.That's kind of variable, depending on how busy it is. A 'usual' wheelchair party is considered to be 5 people plus the person using the wheelchair. With 2 kids, they would usually allow you all to stay (only one person over). But, if it's really busy, they may limit the number of people allowed in the wheelchair viewing area for parades.

[dwarven1]

Great thread... you guys are the greatest. I'm going to cut & paste a lot of these tips. I broke my ankle last week and will be going to WDW, DCL and Universal (the Triple Crown!) next week... me, my crutches, my cast & my wife.

[dwarven1]

One is to get flexible "slipcovers" to go over the seat and back in case of inclement weather for additional protection.
Cheshire Figment, where would I look for something to use as slipcovers? It occurs to me that the ECV might get rained on while I'm in a ride or something, and it wouldn't be fun to come back to a wet scooter.

The main wheelchair pusher may want to get some gloves (the kind that serious bikers or weight lifters use). That helps protect against blisters.

I'll be using a non-powered chair on board the Wonder and an ECV in the parks (along with crutches), and I have both types of gloves - I lift AND I ride (which is how I broke my ankle, come to think of it...) a BMW. Any thoughts on which would be more useful - the workout gloves with padded palms and the wrist support, or the deerskin riding gloves, with even shorter fingers and the back of the hand with a cutout (so it's cooler to wear)?

I was thinking that the lifting gloves would be better when I'm on my crutches, but the riding gloves would be cooler, so... Which would be better to use for what? Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks - it's less than 4 days til departure, and I'm getting excited... and nervous, too.

[SueM in MN]

Cheshire Figment, where would I look for something to use as slipcovers? It occurs to me that the ECV might get rained on while I'm in a ride or something, and it wouldn't be fun to come back to a wet scooter.
We saw quite a few people who had covered their ECV with the type of cover that you might use on lawn furniture to protect it from rain/winter.
We also saw some people who had put a poncho or piece of plastic over their ECV and held it in place with clip type clothespins.
Be sure you cover the controls with something if you are using it in the rain or if it is out in the rain. We saw quite a few people who didn't do that.
I'll be using a non-powered chair on board the Wonder and an ECV in the parks (along with crutches), and I have both types of gloves - I lift AND I ride (which is how I broke my ankle, come to think of it...) a BMW. Any thoughts on which would be more useful - the workout gloves with padded palms and the wrist support, or the deerskin riding gloves, with even shorter fingers and the back of the hand with a cutout (so it's cooler to wear)?

I was thinking that the lifting gloves would be better when I'm on my crutches, but the riding gloves would be cooler, so... Which would be better to use for what? Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks - it's less than 4 days til departure, and I'm getting excited... and nervous, too.
I think you are probably right; the workout gloves with padded palms and wrist support might be better for the crutches and the riding gloves might be better for the wheelchair. There are specific wheelchair gloves for sale, but many people just use bike riding gloves. (google wheelchair gloves). We got a pair for DD once, but she would have nothing to do with them (they were pretty 'girly' looking ones too, but no deal).
I guess you would do well to bring both pairs and try them out. The wrist support may be helpful with crutches, but may also work with the wheelchair too - you don't really move your wrist that much when propelling a wheelchair.

[Marie14625]

It's the guy walking with a lit cigerette swinging it into my face that I like the least.

There's a suggestion carry a fire extinguisher!!!


My suggestion would be for one of those little misters that squirts a mist of water. You could take it out squirt the cig with water till it goes out, then hide the mister really fast...then they will be looking around for whoever soaked their cig. :rotfl2:

[mechurchlady]

My father had a ford courier pick up, the small kind. He found and mounted an air horn on the truck so it sounded like a semi truck was coming, lol.

The next time I use an ECV oh do I want one of them horns. I got trapped in a corner in AK exhibits by about 15 people and that would have helped.

Is there a way to fix a chair so it shocks people who lean on a wheelchair?

Once I got sunburned even though I had a top that covered the area. I had a nice lace decoration on my chest that was sunburn red.

I think you covered most of my ideas and complaints.

[kimbac3]

My father had a ford courier pick up, the small kind. He found and mounted an air horn on the truck so it sounded like a semi truck was coming, lol.

The next time I use an ECV oh do I want one of them horns. I got trapped in a corner in AK exhibits by about 15 people and that would have helped.

Is there a way to fix a chair so it shocks people who lean on a wheelchair?

Once I got sunburned even though I had a top that covered the area. I had a nice lace decoration on my chest that was sunburn red.

I think you covered most of my ideas and complaints.

I soooo want an air horn!! I did have a few people try to lean on my chair but my kids and DH were quick to fix it. Even before I could say anything my DD9 would pipe up with "Excuse me, you can't be there!" :lmao: This past trip I only had one CM "talk around" me. She looked at me and then DH and said "Can she transfer and walk a bit?" We both answered her at the same time. I felt like saying "Yes, she hears and speaks too!!":rolleyes1

One thing I noticed this trip is that alot of CM made sure to ask if I was enjoying myself. I also had a very kind guest interact with me. I was in the restroom, she was about to take her little one into the handicapped stall, she called out to me and asked if I needed that stall. I didn't I was just washing up but I thought that was thoughtful. It was unexpected to say the least!!

Another thing I noticed..my wheelchair seat is not very soft!! My bum hurt so bad!! I need to fix that soon. I use my chair at the mall and when I go out but I don't go out much I guess because I never noticed it before. Maybe it was because it was so hot.

I used many of the tips from here, so thanks to everyone!!

Kimba

[Cheshire Figment]

Several years ago I had very serious thoughts about getting a horn that uses a can of compressed gases. I went to a boating supply store to see what was available.

Unfortunately, all these horns were designed to be heard several hundred yards away. The problem with using them in an enclosed space, or pointed in the direction of nearby people, is they can actually cause auditory damage.

And Judy would not let me buy one. <sigh>

[lovespoohbear]

if your chair has a horn use it. it actually works. i didnt use mine until 2 nights before we left. i was laughing histarically because people parted like the red sea parting and i made my way through.

[Figaro]

Hi, kimbac3!

I've used all kinds of different cushions and it wasn't until I fell and broke my tail bone (didn't know that was what happened) right before our trip to WDW that I discovered using the inflated rubber "donuts" as a cushion.

I realized I needed to see a physician when we visited Animal Kingdom and the bumpy pavement caused me so much pain that we went right to the First Aid station and asked for directions to an urgent care clinic. I now use that as my only cushion and place it inside a pillowcase because rubber sticks to me when it is hot. :)

Hope that helps! I get mine at the local pharmacy.

[SueM in MN]

if your chair has a horn use it. it actually works. i didnt use mine until 2 nights before we left. i was laughing histarically because people parted like the red sea parting and i made my way through.
Be aware though that is one of the things that posters often complain about. So, if you do it, be prepared to read about yourself in a complaint thread.

If there is a crowd, it's better to hang back and wait a while until it clears in our experience.
Hi, kimbac3!

I've used all kinds of different cushions and it wasn't until I fell and broke my tail bone (didn't know that was what happened) right before our trip to WDW that I discovered using the inflated rubber "donuts" as a cushion.

I realized I needed to see a physician when we visited Animal Kingdom and the bumpy pavement caused me so much pain that we went right to the First Aid station and asked for directions to an urgent care clinic. I now use that as my only cushion and place it inside a pillowcase because rubber sticks to me when it is hot. :)

Hope that helps! I get mine at the local pharmacy.
That is OK for someone who can get up and change position frequently, but I have seen patients who could not move/fell who actually ende up with pressure ulcers on their bottoms because using a donut gives a smaller amount of skin surface for you to be resting on. The skin that is resting on it gets more pressure and could be damaged. So, just be aware, get up and move around from time to time.

[kimbac3]

Hi, kimbac3!

I've used all kinds of different cushions and it wasn't until I fell and broke my tail bone (didn't know that was what happened) right before our trip to WDW that I discovered using the inflated rubber "donuts" as a cushion.

I realized I needed to see a physician when we visited Animal Kingdom and the bumpy pavement caused me so much pain that we went right to the First Aid station and asked for directions to an urgent care clinic. I now use that as my only cushion and place it inside a pillowcase because rubber sticks to me when it is hot. :)

Hope that helps! I get mine at the local pharmacy.

That is OK for someone who can get up and change position frequently, but I have seen patients who could not move/fell who actually ende up with pressure ulcers on their bottoms because using a donut gives a smaller amount of skin surface for you to be resting on. The skin that is resting on it gets more pressure and could be damaged. So, just be aware, get up and move around from time to time.

Thanks! I can get up and do try - I can't go far. I use my cane when I do. But it seems the pain is getting worse and worse. I think I'll try the donut and see how it works for me. I'm also going to look online and see what the make specifically for wheelchairs.

Thanks Again,
Kimba

[SueM in MN]

Thanks! I can get up and do try - I can't go far. I use my cane when I do. But it seems the pain is getting worse and worse. I think I'll try the donut and see how it works for me. I'm also going to look online and see what the make specifically for wheelchairs.

Thanks Again,
Kimba
I'm posting from my iPod so I can't do any cutting and pasting, but if you do an internet search for "wheelchair"+"cushion" you will come up with all sorts. From donuts, to memory foam and gel. You can find some good ones for $40 or a little less. Don't be surprised to see some expensive ones; my DD has a lot of pressure reduction and positioning needs, so she has an expensive gel seat cushion -over $500!

[All4Nuthin]

Hi!

If you are using an ECV, rather than using a towel on the seat that can slip and slide check out your auto department for a comfy looking bucket seat cover. The bottom will stretch to fit even the larger seats. While the back will be longer than the ECV seat you can tuck the excess into itself behind the seat, forming a kind of pocket that will lye flat.

In addition to having a nice seat cover, if you are using a rental you will easily be able to spot your ECV as the seat cover will make it stand out in a group of same color/model ECVs.

Take care.

[mechurchlady]

I was in the parking lot of Wal-mart yesterday and learned a dirty lesson. Make sure you clean the chair or ECV for a trip even to the store. My mother's chair has all sorts of thread and hair in the whee and I am still not done cleaning it. She will not use the back up chair so I never get to see it, lol, silly mother will not let me near the throne if she is in it. Make sure the chair is lubed and cleaned.

Today I slept like a rock from pushing mom in the store. She is to stubborn to use a power chair but then again we would not have a way to transport a power chair.

I still want that air horn. As for trips I have not had problems lately on trips using an ECV except at WDW and SeaWorld when people would get on top of you to see the animals. At the Wild Animal Park and Aquarium of the Pacific there were fewer people but still some kids and a few adults will crowd a person in a chair.

[LindsayDunn228]

Be aware though that is one of the things that posters often complain about. So, if you do it, be prepared to read about yourself in a complaint thread.

If there is a crowd, it's better to hang back and wait a while until it clears in our experience.

I totally agree. I cannot think of anything more rude than to honk at someone while in a chair/ECV. If I am trapped in a crowd or cornered in a store, moving and saying excuse me goes a long way. No horn needed.

I am in a wheelchair, not a car.

[Mickiethepooh]

Thanks! I can get up and do try - I can't go far. I use my cane when I do. But it seems the pain is getting worse and worse. I think I'll try the donut and see how it works for me. I'm also going to look online and see what the make specifically for wheelchairs.

Thanks Again,
Kimba

I have had two gel cushions designed for wheelchairs and very expensive, though ins. usually covers it. However one time I forgot it on a plane, [I did get it back eventually] anyway in a pinch I used one of those dining room chair cushions you can buy foam about 3 or more inches thick. It turned out to be the most comfortable cushion I have used and was like 12.00 or something like that.
You might try that, little to lose.

[KPeveler]

i have found what may work well for those of us who can get up and shift positions easily - i went to a sewing store and got a pillow form, just a 3 inch thick piece of foam, and it was perfect! you can also cut it to the size of your chair, so it fits perfectly. I just put it in a pillow case, and poof! :wizard: instant cushion! it was all of $6. that way if it gets lost or ruined, its okay with me

[KPeveler]

i have also heard that bubble wrap can help - i plan on taking the foot rests and cushion and brake handle extenders off my chair, but i may well cover some of the exposed parts with bubble wrap (nothing to interfere with rolling it) to avoid scratches and dings... i cant imagine the paperwork to get the airline to cover something like a pain job - its easier to spend $5 on bubble wrap!

[BillSears]

if your chair has a horn use it. it actually works. i didnt use mine until 2 nights before we left. i was laughing histarically because people parted like the red sea parting and i made my way through.

Be aware though that is one of the things that posters often complain about. So, if you do it, be prepared to read about yourself in a complaint thread.

If there is a crowd, it's better to hang back and wait a while until it clears in our experience.

I totally agree. I cannot think of anything more rude than to honk at someone while in a chair/ECV. If I am trapped in a crowd or cornered in a store, moving and saying excuse me goes a long way. No horn needed.

I am in a wheelchair, not a car.

Yep it seems pretty rude to me to use a horn. I feel it's the equivilent of going through the crowd yelling "Get out of my way!". When you're in a crowd you have to learn to travel with the crowd not expect it to part like the red sea.

I tend to tap someone on the shoulder or say excuse me when I need to pass through a tight area in a store. In crowds I just go with the flow and work my way to the exit just like everyone else.

[Mickiethepooh]

I agree with Bill about the horn thing, mine sounds like a sick duck anyway, but the only time I ever use it is after sitting about 2 min or so trying to get past someone, saying excuse me, and being not heard, then and only then I hit the horn, oh yes one other, when someone suddenly is about to crash into me or fall in my lap, if there is time to beep.

[Tigrrtum]

We bring two Disney rain slickers, one to wear and one to drape over the scooter. When my wife has to wear the slicker, it usually will fit over the back of the seat and cover the handlebars also, draping one extra pouncho over the scooter is fine, but beware of the hood and the hole where your head comes through, one wrong move and up dump water right on your seat!

[SallyfromDE]

I rented an outside ECV for my trip last month. I don't have much experience with one and was really worried. But I made out well and wouldn't hesitate again, if the need arose. Hopefully next trip, I'll be in good shape and it won't be needed.

For the rain, I had taken a clear trash bag from the room, so when we were in a resturant, I'd just wrap the basket and handles with it. It worked well. If we were not sure of the weather, I'd fold the seat down, that way I wouldn't have a wet butt when I came out. And if I had to ride in the rain, I used the Disney poncho. I can't wear hats, but I bought a cheap visor. I hate to get the rain on my glasses. Plus it helps to keep the hood up. The ECV company suggested a large Disney bag. I like the shower cap idea.

I had meant to bring a clip on battery fan we have at home. I wanted to try it and see if it worked. Someone might want to try that when it's hot. They make them for baby strollers. I got mine at 5below.

I had rented a cane holder. I thought it was a waste of money. The cane kept popping out, or the bus driver would take it off so he strap the ECV. I would just stick it through the hole in the basket.

Thankfully, many times the bus driver would ask if he could put it on the bus for me. After the first day, I got pretty good at it.

[kimbac3]

WOW!! You guys have given me so many great ideas!! Now to decide which one........

Kimba

[gina76@cox.net]

I was actually initally worried about my Dad who will be traveling with our family for the first time. He uses a cane but will need an ECV for the trip. He is often very worried about becoming a burden, even though I have assured him that using the ECV will be fine and we will stick with him. My husband even offered to drive it on and off the bus for him( he gets nervous easily) My only concern is that I hear horror strories about buses and because we are staying at Saratoga Springs buses are pretty much our only option. Has anyone been recently that can help ease my worry. Are all the buses handicapped accessible at this point?

[SueM in MN]

My only concern is that I hear horror strories about buses and because we are staying at Saratoga Springs buses are pretty much our only option. Has anyone been recently that can help ease my worry. Are all the buses handicapped accessible at this point?
In most cases, the buses work very well. People are MUCH more likely to post their 'horror' stories than talk about the hundreds of times things work well.
So, that is something to keep in mind about what you read.

Pretty much all the buses are handicapped accessible at this point. Occasionally, you will run into a bus where either the lift or the tiedowns to attach the wheelchair/ECV to the bus are out of order, but most of the time things are fine.
We have stayed at Saratoga Springs a number of times (the last was this October) and had few problems.

If you haven't already read it, I'd encourage you to check out the bus information in the disABILITIES FAQs thread.

[clkelley]

Cheshire Figment, where would I look for something to use as slipcovers? It occurs to me that the ECV might get rained on while I'm in a ride or something, and it wouldn't be fun to come back to a wet scooter.

.

We use a small gas grill cover for hubby's ECV.