Afraid of scooter, is wheelchair better for me?

[rhrhrhrh]

First, thank you for this very informative site!

So I've read about other people being afraid of using a scooter because of "funny looks" or "they don't really need it" or it's very clunky to get around for the person or persons who have to help.

But I'm afraid because I have a metabolic neuromuscular disease that has cognitive issues associated, including absence seizures and stroke-like episodes in the past. If I am operating a scooter, and have a "blank out," what will happen?

Because I have kids, this frightens me even more that they could get hurt if I essentially pass out (my FIL had a scooter and they were a little too interested in the handlebars!).

Anyway, my question is if I would be better off using a wheelchair, or a cane, at Disney. At home, I limp around and use a cane or walker if I need to. I've never used a wheelchair but now in addition to the neuromuscular disease (like MS but not), I have severe arthritis in one knee. I would be concerned about fatigue if I would move the wheelchair myself, and my husband had shoulder surgery so he can't push it, so again I return to the scooter idea. (and did I mention back surgery which can make sitting painful too?)

And finally, I have read about Disneyworld with a cane. I think that's what I will end up doing, and bring info on my illness to get a GAC to be allowed to sit down as much as possible. Last time I was in Disneyworld I was a few months pregnant with my next oldest in a stroller, so I used the stroller as a walker

Any thoughts or advice? I have read about others with children with epilepsy, but I have not seen anyone with both mobility and epilepsy concerns themselves, let alone cognitive issues.

 

[Mrsjvb]

there is no GAC that will allow you to necessarily sit down as much as possible.. one not every ride has an alternative waiting area, and 2 those areas will not necessarily have seats.. or open seating. and thirdly, seating areas may be few and far between throughout the parks. and again.. may not necessarily be free when you need them.

the default suggestion is to get a WC or ECV. I am unable to use an ECV due to my inability to swivel my neck so I can't turn and look around. nor can I wheel myself in a chair as I have pretty much no upper body strength at all.

so, it's have my DH push me around.. or I don't go.

I suggest you practice on an ECV first before going. plus find out what sort of safety devices are in place in case you do pass out.

 

[tobikaye]

Have you read the FAQ information already: Disabilities FAQ? If not, you should to get a bit more information on the GAC. You will not need to bring anything, just be able to tell them what your needs are. The problem is that there are not many places to sit while waiting to ride.

As for being afraid to use the scooter due to blanking out, I can see that as being a concern. Have you used a rollator before, the walker with wheels? This was huge help last year when I took my sister with her arthritis. She was able to lean on it when she needed, plus it gave her a place to sit when we waited in lines.

 

[minnie mum]

Have you used a rollator before, the walker with wheels? .

Great minds think alike! I was just going to suggest this. If there is the slightest risk of a seizure, an ECV should be out of the question. Not just for the safety of anyone in your party- think of the crowds of people around you.

And a w/c is out too, because of your DHs shoulder. My husband pushes me in a w/c, and even though he's in pretty good shape, he's exhausted at the end of most days.

The rollator seems like the best choice for you. The same support you get at home from a walker, plus a place to sit while in line. AND easy to take on the buses AND you'll have it at your resort.

 

[KPeveler]

I can tell you now that you will not be able to push a rental wheelchair yourself very much. And I agree that an ECV can be too dangerous for you. If you suddenly "blank" out, the ECV will roll to a stop (if your hand comes off the tiller). I don't know how your absence seizures work, but if your muscles retain their position you could keep driving and not even know it. Even rolling to a stop, you could hit others or go off a curb.

I second the idea of a rollator, or pushing a wheelchair empty, then sitting in it when you need.

There really is no GAC that will allow you to sit, unless you have a rollator or wheelchair with you. Queues or exits do not have seats in them, and there is no way to see the entrance to the ride from anywhere else.

Look into an idea of a rollator or wheelchair to push empty - that worked for me for quite a while for my bad knee.

 

[SueM in MN]

I agree with the other posters that a rollator may be the best option for you.
It takes a lot of concentration to drive an ECV, especially at a place as busy as WDW. Even if your absence seizures are very short, that could be enough time to go out of control

Guest Assistance Cards rarely shorten the distance walked, so getting one will not help in that way. And, as the other posters mentioned, there are few spots to sit.

 

[Bete]

you may want to consider another companion from home that's capable of pushing a wheelchair for you and is willing to come. You can always revise resort accomodations to accomodate changes.

You can get a hired helper once you are there at a price to help. Keep in mind that you have to pay for their park tickets and meals, too. The usual rate I would say is about $20/hour.

Otherwise, I agree buying a rollator will be your best bet. It allows you to sit anywhere and anytime. It's like a walker with a seat.

Have a stradegy that will give you rest periods; this will be essential. Like do some rides, then a show, do more rides, then a parade, do more rides and then eat, do more rides and then fireworks. You may even need to take a rest period back at the resort and then return to the parks. Keep in mind, you can rest at the first aid centers in each park.

 

[krisnme]

It does sound like you should consider bringing along a companion. Don't know your age, but is there a teenaged child/grandchild niece or nephew you could bring? they could easily push a w/c and you wouldbe able to see so much more of the park. they tend to have lots of energy and can help also with things like carrying food trays and luggage. depending on how much warning you have before a "black out" you may still consider an ECV. they stop within a foot or two of removing pressure from the throttle. hope your trip works out.