Guidelines for Disabilities

dawz1026

DIS Veteran
Joined
Oct 25, 2006
Messages
805
I was curious to know what qualifies as a disability under Disney rule..I am on ssi disability for a back issue that will need surgical intervention in the coming future but standing/sitting too long can be burdensome on me..just curious to know where to look for info
 
Not anything specific insofar as a Disney rule that I know of. It is left to your judgment. If you have mobility issues, you can rent an ecv either at the park or from an outside source. There is a really good thread on here about disabilities.

I too have back problems (and now, knee, hip, and foot!) but appear to be "normal." However, I can't sit or stand or walk very far without terrible pain. So, I always rent an ecv. Helps me and makes the vacation more fun for my family. Let other people say whatever they want (and many will do so, loud enough for you to hear on purpose!). That is their problem, not mine!
 
Disney is great - if you need help, they'll do what they can to give it to you! :goodvibes You don't need to provide any proof of disability, doctor's note or benefits' information; you just need to explain your needs and how they can help.

As CK said, an ECV or wheelchair might help you, by providing a place to sit when needed. You can rent these in the parks or from off-site companies, though do be aware that the parks often run out of ECVs. The parks are very accessible, and most lines you can go through in the wheelchair as you would on foot. You don't need to use the wheelchair all the time, and you can park it in the stroller parking when you need to stand / walk.

You may want to avoid, or at least think carefully before riding, anything with a red triangle warning. These rides pose risks to people with various health issues, and could contain sharp turns or jolts that could further harm your back. If you're unsure about any of them, you can ask the CM at the entrance to the line, and they can give you further details.

If you're staying at a hotel with a hot tub, I suggest you try to use it at the end of each day, as it will relax your muscles before you sleep. I've got back issues due to Fibro, and I felt a lot better on days after doing this, than the days when I didn't. If you can't get to a hot-tub, a hot bath would help too, as would a few gentle stretches.

If you need to lie down whilst in the parks, the first aid centres (marked on the maps) all have beds that you can use if you need. Just ask them if you can use a bed, because you have back issues and need to lie down, and they'll show you to a bed.

Are there any particular things that you are worried you might have problems with? We might be able to help you find solutions, to make your trip more enjoyable.

Good luck and have a great trip! :thumbsup2
 
It depends on what you need - they do not need to know a dx but instead need to know your needs..

What do you think you need to enjoy the parks? Keep in mind there is no way to avoid lines, nor is there a place to sit while your party waits in a line (almost never anyway).

Honestly a wc or ecv may be your best bet if you need to avoid prolonged standing. Disney suggests that people rent an ECV or wc for any mobility or stamina problem.
 

As was mentioned, if you are concerned about your ability to walk or having a place to sit, you really need to consider an ECV or wheelchair.

If you follow the link in my signature to the disABILITIES FAQs thread, you will find information about wheelchairs and ECVs in post #2 and information about Guest Assistance Cards in post #6.
A Guest Assistance Card will not help you to avoid walking or shorten yourwalk.
 





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