First timer questions

[jessic2422]

I have a friend leaving for disney next week. They will be taking there young daughter who has physical challenges requiring a wheelchair much of the time. She also has very limited vision. While I have been to disney several times I have not been with someone with a disability. Can you tell me what they need to know in general. One of their biggest concerns is her visual challenges and shows. Thanks for your help!

 

[lanejudy]

For visual challenges, they simply need to request what seating is most preferred for her -- be that front row or wherever works best for her. They will want to mention this to each CM they encounter at the attraction to make sure they are directed appropriately (there may be a specific entrance to use).

As for the wheelchair, the vast majority of queues are mainstreamed now. For the few that aren't, they'll be directed accordingly. It is possible they may receive a "wheelchair return card" which will give them a time to come back, essentially saving them a place in line (some accessible entrances can get backed up). The disABILITIES FAQ sticky near the top of this forum has details about the rides as far as accessibility (transfers, etc.).

I hope your friends enjoy their vacation! You are a kind friend to help them.

 

[jessic2422]

Do they have to go to a kiosk to get ride passes each time or just guest services?

 

[lanejudy]

They'll want to plan their 3 FP+ per day in advance. If seating is her primary need, plus the wheelchair, she will not qualify for the DAS. Therefore, nothing to sign. If wheelchair return cards are in-use, it will be given when they first approach the attraction queue. The wheelchair return cards are not used at all rides or every day, only when the crowds at that particular attraction create need to prevent back-ups from forming in the accessible entrance. So if they are going at a low-crowd time of year, it's possible they won't use any wheelchair return cards -- they would just be directed to the accessible entrance when appropriate.

If she is using a stroller as her wheelchair, they'll need to stop by Guest Services once to get a tag good for the length of their stay. Otherwise, no need to go to Guest Services, unless she has other needs that would qualify for a DAS.

Kiosks are used at WDW for additional (4th, 5th, etc.) FP+ times. They may want to take advantage of those after they've used the initial 3 pre-scheduled FP+.

 

[jessic2422]

What is the DAS? She has a number of barriers and I am sure she would qualify for most anything.

 

[aaarcher86]

What is the DAS? She has a number of barriers and I am sure she would qualify for most anything.

A DAS is for someone who can not tolerate a line atmosphere. As most of the lines are wheelchair accessible, they can simply take the wheelchair through the line. Where they are not accessible there are other procedures - they'll let them know at the ride.With the issues you've given, a DAS wouldn't be necessary or likely even given as it doesn't help with show seating and her mobility issues are resolved via the wheelchair.