First time wheelchair user in parks

[cjclippard]

This will be the first time using a rented wheelchair at WDW. I would love any helpful suggestions. Do I need to personalize wheelchair? Do we park it in stroller area when using ride? I have been going thru treads to find answers and haven't found any ideas for rented chairs and personalization. Leaving Feb 15 for a quick 4 day tour of parks with Grandparents. It will be their first time at WDW!

 

[gap2368]

you do not any special thing for a wheel chair

you can take a wheel chair in most line at WDW with you ( and I would do this) try few will give you a return time for you to come back latter ( it will be wait time -10 minute) some place you ( and up to 5 people) will go to the exit BTMRR at MK and space ship earth at EPCOT are two I can think of

 

[Bete]

We use reflective tape on the wheelchair, but make sure you get it off when you are done. You can use a flag, too.

 

[mamabunny]

Some rental companies have a clear pocket on the back side of the seat back that they will put a "name card" in.

Easy to pack, put on and take off: bright colorful bandanas or grosgrain ribbons. Tie them on to the handlebars, and your wheelchair will instantly stand out in a sea of similar rentals! The only reason I wouldn't use tape is that the Florida sunshine and heat could leave you with a sticky mess that you will have to try and deal with under less than optimal conditions, and you don't want to have to pay a damage penalty to the rental company.

I know there was someone here last year who was considering sewing a nice seat cover that would go over the seat back, and down the seat.

If you don't have someone to push you, please be aware that if you have never self-propelled in a wheelchair before, you may find that you can't get very far before you find your arms have given out. If you are going to use the chair like a walker part of the time you may be able to get further along, but you may find that (especially) on the subsequent days, your arms feel like limp noodles, and your core will be screaming.

There are *lots* more hills, slopes, inclines and ramps at WDW than you realize, until you are on wheels.

If you don't have someone to help push, perhaps at least consider renting an ECV? If you rent from an off-site vendor and have it delivered to your WDW resort hotel, the cost is significantly cheaper than the daily rental price at the Parks & Disney Springs.

 

[MaryLovesPoohBear]

When we rented my scooter for our last trip, I brought battery powdered Christmas lights. They were wonderful. I'm sure you could something similar with a wheelchair.

I also go to the Disigners forum here, and request a license plate with my name. I've had cast members call me by name. It is pretty cool.

 

[firerunner1965]

Do not run the wheelchair faster then you (or your spouse ) can walk! I am in a wheelchair and I always hold my hubby hand. Just like we were walking. Never ceases to amaze me to see 60 year olds running the chair at full speed across the park..accident waiting..

Also my chair has a GREAT side bag it attaches to the arm rest. Holds a soda or water bottle etc. LOVE IT!!

Have fun!!