ECV rental question and GAC question for mom

[MinnieTink]

Hi all.... So excited to say that we finally convinced my mom and dad to come back to WDW with us again. We go yearly, the last time they were there was 2005. My mom has two really bad knees and cannot walk much. We are currently researching renting an ECV from an outside company (so far Apple looks like the one) and I have some questions. Firstly, how do you feel about the portable scooters? Are they just as comfortable and do they hold a charge as well as a 'nonportable' scooter? We will have our minivan there, so I thought it would be a good idea if it is an option to take it in the car with us should we drive to a park or even a restaurant in another resort. So any info on scooter rental places and the use of portable scooters would be great!

The second question is regarding the GAC. I have heard of them, but never used one or looked into it, and really don't know if it applies here in my moms situation. Let me know if you think she could benefit from it and how would she go about getting one.

Thank you all so much for any insight!

 

[anonymousegirl]

The GAC is a method of communicating to a cast member what special accommodations a person needs. It is often used for "hidden" or "invisible" disabilities. Wheelchair and scooters normally go in to the regular mainstreamed line, but in some cases, are directed alternative entrances. Every time you ride may be a different instruction based on the current situation.
To get one, you and your mother need to speak with guest services at the parks. Explain her needs; the cast member does not need to see a doctor's note and they do not need specific diagnosis--just what accommodations you mother needs to be able to navigate the parks.

 

[anonymousegirl]

Forgot to note that here on the DISboards we are not supposed to discuss a specific stamp so responders will not be able to go into much detail as to what kinds of stamps are available or how they might work in your mother's case. It is best to speak directly with guest services. Good luck!

 

[powellrj]

Hi all.... So excited to say that we finally convinced my mom and dad to come back to WDW with us again. We go yearly, the last time they were there was 2005. My mom has two really bad knees and cannot walk much. We are currently researching renting an ECV from an outside company (so far Apple looks like the one) and I have some questions. Firstly, how do you feel about the portable scooters? Are they just as comfortable and do they hold a charge as well as a 'nonportable' scooter? We will have our minivan there, so I thought it would be a good idea if it is an option to take it in the car with us should we drive to a park or even a restaurant in another resort. So any info on scooter rental places and the use of portable scooters would be great!

The second question is regarding the GAC. I have heard of them, but never used one or looked into it, and really don't know if it applies here in my moms situation. Let me know if you think she could benefit from it and how would she go about getting one.

Thank you all so much for any insight!

If she uses an ECV, she really won't need a GAC, they will see the ECV and direct her to where she needs to go.

She should be fine in a portable rental scooter, that's what most people use when they don't own their own power chair or scooter.

 

[MinnieTink]

Thank you for explaining about the GAC! I get it. As I was typing it I was like, I probably should just read the FAQ, its probably on there. But thank your for your patience and for answering that!