My mother has a difficult time climbing stairs and with the moving walkways and we plan to stop at guest services to get her a GAC... I am just wondering when we are on the haunted mansion for example do the CM's remember you when you are getting off the ride to stop the moving walkway then too?
There is a thread in post #3 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread about boarding rides, specifically rides with moving walkways.
The GAC (Guest Assistance Card) that would benefit her would allow her to use the wheelchair entrances - that usually doesn't mean less walking, but would mean that she would board in places that avoid stairs. If she is using a wheelchair or
ECV in line, she won't also need a GAC - CMs will route you to the accessible boarding area. If she is using a cane, crutches or walker, she also would need a GAC, although she may have to point her needs out to the CM at the ride entrance. Also, get a Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities so that you know if there is a special entrance for guests with mobility needs.
For the rides with moving walkways, you would be boarding at the exit (usually after waiting in the regular line until just before the line gets to the boarding area). That is because the CM at the exit can slow and stop it; CMs at the 'regular' boarding area can usually only stop the walkway in an emergency.
Since most people don't need the moving walkway actually stopped, the CMs normally slow it, unless you tell them that you need a complete stop.
For Haunted Mansion, look for the hearse on the right side of the line just before the regular line gets to the building; that is where the handicapped access is.
The CM will ask if she can walk 200 feet. If you say yes, you will be routed into the Stretching room thru a "servant's entrance" on the side. You will need to stand during the whole preshow and will board at the regular boarding area (with the moving walkway). If you say no, the CM will show you where to wait for boarding at the exit. You will miss the stretching room, but will board and get off at the same place - the exit. The ride car that you are on is marked (you may not see any marking) so that ride CMs can identitfy that someone with a disability is in that car. They normally will slow the walkway when you get out; if that's not enough, don't be polite - just say something like - "we need a full stop" and the CM controlling the ride will stop it.
