Getting around EPCOT/Animal Kingdom in a wheel chair

[JJR]

We are planning a trip to Disney World and my mother in law is interested in coming but she has a problem walking long distances. She can walk short distances but will need a wheel chair for the long hauls. We are thinking of doing EPCOT and Animal Kingdom the days she is with us. Can anyone tell me of their experiences regarding getting around with wheel chairs in those parks. Is it easy to get on the rides/attractions ect.

 

[SueM in MN]

I just have a few minutes to answer.

Those Parks are very accessible and most of the attractions are accessible for wheelchairs using the same line everyone else is using. These are called Mainstream Lines.

You can find out more information in the disABILITIES FAQs thread near the top of this board ( you can also follow the link in my signature to get there).
Post 11 is about access and Mainstream lines and posts 18-22 on page 2 are about transfers into ride cars.

 

[GrammyJudy]

I suggest she rent an ECV as it will be hard on the person pushing the wheelchair all day. Also she will feele less of a burden.

 

[JoyMouse]

My DD uses a wheelchair in the parks since she also has difficulties walking long distances. We have been to both of those parks numerous times, I usually push her. I have had knee surgery and am still able to manage fine. Animal Kingdome is harder to me, the walkways are not as level. We still do just fine. If you are able to walk all day, pushing a good wheelchair is not much harder, they really give support to the pusher as well! It is nearly like using a walker, there is just someone sitting in front of you! LOL

 

[SueM in MN]

My DD uses a wheelchair in the parks since she also has difficulties walking long distances. We have been to both of those parks numerous times, I usually push her. I have had knee surgery and am still able to manage fine. Animal Kingdome is harder to me, the walkways are not as level. We still do just fine. If you are able to walk all day, pushing a good wheelchair is not much harder, they really give support to the pusher as well! It is nearly like using a walker, there is just someone sitting in front of you! LOL

My FIL had bad hips and knees and liked to use my DD's wheelchair like that!

 

[JJR]

Looking on line it seemed DW was a good place for people with disabilities to get around in but all your input helps. If she decides to come I think a wheel chair will work fine for us. Thanks for the help

 

[Deesknee]

I suggest she rent an ECV as it will be hard on the person pushing the wheelchair all day. Also she will feele less of a burden.

if possible do the ECV. I require a manual wc, and dh has difficulty pushing me at certain areas of AK.

 

[LisaBi]

The unlevel pavement at AK can be a bit difficult, but of the 4 parks I think those are two easiest to push a wheelchair. At DHS and MK there are just so many curbs and sidewalks to navigate.

 

[rascooby]

My mom broke her leg a couple months before Disney (running a marathon, if you can believe that). Anyway, my Dad pushed her around at both of those parks without a problem.

 

[I Love Pluto]

I agree with the pavement at AK being quite a challenge with wheels. It becomes rather annoying to bump along after a while.

I guess this is how our kids feel in a stroller on uneven pavement. No wonder they cry and fuss sometimes!

 

[carrie1626]

Looking on line it seemed DW was a good place for people with disabilities to get around in but all your input helps. If she decides to come I think a wheel chair will work fine for us. Thanks for the help

Epcot will be easier because it's more level and the pathway around the would is larger in most areas. AK will be a bit harder because of the upward level you going in more places.

As long as the person pushing is in good health and has good stamina themselves, a regular wheel chair should be OK. If you have multiple persons to push- perfect.

You should have something extra for her to use as a chairpad. (a towel folded )

Also, there are always people who are ahead of you that come to a DEAD STOP!!
So the pusher has to always be aware of the surroundings and a young child pushing may not to the best person to do so.