Potential mobility issue

rigs32

DIS Veteran
Joined
Dec 3, 2001
Messages
2,714
Hello all. Dh and I are planning a trip with our moms who are both in the mid-50s. I never thought mobility would be an issue, but I guess my MIL has problems with one of her legs and DH is worried about her ability to walk the parks.

I asked him if we could rent a wheelchair for Epcot, since it's the largest park, or on days when she had problems and he seems to think she would NEVER allow us to do that - she wouldn't be willing to admit she needed the assistance.

Do you think we should just structure our days with frequent shows or other seated attractions? She's not a big thrill ride person, so she'll likely sit and wait for us then (we'll carry a book for her in case she tires of people watching).

Also, I know I'm going to feel bad if she wants to go back to the room and rest and I don't want to leave the parks. I think we'll have to make a rule that if his mom wants to go back, he'll offer to go with her and I'll offer to go back with my mom if need be. If we get turned down, so be it, but at least we don't look like selfish goons. DH's mom is the only one who hasn't been before, so we wouldn't be heartbroken at having to miss some attractions.

We have TS dinner planned each night to take a long break when we're all getting tired and sore.

Is there anything else I should consider?
 
Welcome to disABILTIES! I have a few suggestions.

If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. The second item down is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information, including where people rent wheelchairs or ECVs. Our general recommendation is that an ECV be considered if possible, rather than a wheelchair. There is less of a felling of dependence or helplessness.

Second, Please ask the following questions. Here are the suggested answers to go with them.

1. Are you disabled (even temporarily)? Yes.

2. Do the people you are travelling with, such as your family, know you are disabled? Yes.

3. Do you expect to meet anyone you know during this trip who may not know you are disabled. Probably No!

4. Do you expect to meet a bunch of people who you will probably never meet again in your life? Probably yes!

5. Is there any reason at all that you should care what these people think about you? Absolutely No!!

6. Will using a wheelchair or ECV make for a better vacation for you and your family? Absolutely YES!

One of the worst things a person can do is try to tough it out; it will make them miserable not only that day but on subsequent days.
 
Cheshire Figment said:
Welcome to disABILTIES! I have a few suggestions.

If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. The second item down is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information, including where people rent wheelchairs or ECVs. Our general recommendation is that an ECV be considered if possible, rather than a wheelchair. There is less of a felling of dependence or helplessness.

Second, Please ask the following questions. Here are the suggested answers to go with them.

1. Are you disabled (even temporarily)? Yes.

2. Do the people you are travelling with, such as your family, know you are disabled? Yes.

3. Do you expect to meet anyone you know during this trip who may not know you are disabled. Probably No!

4. Do you expect to meet a bunch of people who you will probably never meet again in your life? Probably yes!

5. Is there any reason at all that you should care what these people think about you? Absolutely No!!

6. Will using a wheelchair or ECV make for a better vacation for you and your family? Absolutely YES!

One of the worst things a person can do is try to tough it out; it will make them miserable not only that day but on subsequent days.

So eloquently put !

Go use the EVC and enjoy your trip.

Have a happy trip,
Alan
 












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