Rest Areas? Tips Requested.

[tcrandal]

My wife was in a car accident in June, a tractor trailer rear ended her vehicle, and she sufferred whip lash and a concussion from hitting her head against the steering wheel. We had a trip planned prior to the accident to disney and while she is suffering from major post concussion symptoms, she would still like to go, and I am trying to plan limited things for her to be able to do. She suffers from daily headaches, dizziness, nausea, light sensitivity and fatigue primarily, and she can go 1-2 hours but then needs a rest break for at least 15-20 minutes. I wouldn't imagine they have any areas that she could lay down or anything, but wanted to ask. She isn't planning on going on rides (I doubt she could handle much), visual stilumlation makes her symptoms worse, so even rides like Small World would probably ramp up her headache a couple notches. We are staying on property and I am trying to convince her to let me push her around in a wheel chair to conserve energy.

Any tips? I just want her to be able to enjoy her surroundings and keep her spirits up. She has barely been able to leave the house for lunch with family or friends, so this is a bit extreme for us to consider. We'll be staying in our room a lot more than usual, but looking for:

- Quiet areas of each park that she might be able to rest and recoup? For example, I know the area between Mission Space and Test Drive has a lot of benches and it's relatively quiet at times there
- Any medical areas that we could utilize? I know this is doubtful as they couldn't provide that to guests

We'll probably just plan 1-2 hours in the park to walk around and then just enjoy the resorts so we're close to the room when she gets tired. Thank you in advance for any advice!

 

[lanejudy]

Every park has a First Aid location. They have private rooms with beds or cots where she could lie down or rest for a bit. There are not a lot of benches and what benches or seating spots that are around may be taken by others. Would she consider using a rollator, or pushing an empty wheelchair? Either option would provide her with a seat whenever she needs one.

 

[mamabunny]

I have had to use the First Aid stations before, and have found them to be just wonderful. All of the CMs who worked there were very caring and compassionate, and clearly professionals.

Just a thought; she can take along ear plugs, oversized sunglasses and a lightweight hoodie or blanket that will let her create some quiet private space while she is sitting anywhere.

If she wants to try walking, she could just push the wheelchair until she needs to sit in it; that way she gets a break from sitting all the time.

If she wants to see the queues for the rides, most of them have a "chicken exit" - just tell the CM at the entrance that she can't ride, but she wants to see the queue.

Some of the shows can be kind of loud, especially if there isn't a full house - be sure to ask a CM at the entrance if you can leave if it proves to be too much. Or, she can put the earplugs in to help bring down sound levels.

Personally, for a quieter day, I prefer World Showcase at EPCOT. Aside from the drummers at Japan (and they have posted show times, so you can avoid that) there are many quieter areas you can find to just sit and people watch. I love the koi pond at Japan; I could watch the fish for hours! And the garden train at Germany is wonderful as well. There is a little spot in Italy, outside the back door of the shop (on the left after you enter the main plaza area) that is both beautiful and quiet.

I hope you all find a new way to "do Disney" that works for her.

 

[DL1WDW2]

You don’t mention which resort you are staying at. Location of resort will help with suggestions.
I recently noticed a sign that the First Aid Station-at MK had moved . I think it said Tomorrowland but not certain? Sorry. I guess grab the guide map. to doublecheck.
I also advise you try to keep it simple for your health also. It is not easy to push someone on property.
Form personal experience, the easiest way to keep it simple for your trip planning Would be spending more time at MK for basic Main Street path to the Magic Kingdom . Sitting on those yellow covered tables in front of the Plaza and enjoying Starbucks or ice cream or even Casey’s hot dogs…
Epcot kinda has a basic entry but Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. Not so easy to navigate for a keep it simple philosophy.
Disney Springs park in Orange lot and enter on 3 rd level but park on second for security screening location… and arrive with view of the Aerophile giant balloon and nearby Starbucks with air conditioned indoor seating and outdoor seating with view of balloon and a fireplace! You might want to consider AMC for a Disney movie experience.
I will be at DisneyWorld this weekend and will try to think of other ideas.

Be aware Disney has not returned the parking lot trams !!!
.

 

[SueM in MN]

You don’t mention which resort you are staying at. Location of resort will help with suggestions.
I recently noticed a sign that the First Aid Station-at MK had moved . I think it said Tomorrowland but not certain?

Baby Care had moved to an area in Tomorrowland while its original location was being renovated.
According to the park maps, it’s back in its original location with First Aid between Casey’s Corner and Crystal Palace. It’s possible First Aid may also be renovated soon and move to the Tomorrowland while that happens.
It‘s also possible it HAS moved there and the maps don’t reflect that, but the My Disney Experience, maps on the website and in the parks show the same.
Here’s a screenshot of the map.

 

[BroadwayHermione5]

My wife was in a car accident in June, a tractor trailer rear ended her vehicle, and she sufferred whip lash and a concussion from hitting her head against the steering wheel. We had a trip planned prior to the accident to disney and while she is suffering from major post concussion symptoms, she would still like to go, and I am trying to plan limited things for her to be able to do. She suffers from daily headaches, dizziness, nausea, light sensitivity and fatigue primarily, and she can go 1-2 hours but then needs a rest break for at least 15-20 minutes. I wouldn't imagine they have any areas that she could lay down or anything, but wanted to ask. She isn't planning on going on rides (I doubt she could handle much), visual stilumlation makes her symptoms worse, so even rides like Small World would probably ramp up her headache a couple notches. We are staying on property and I am trying to convince her to let me push her around in a wheel chair to conserve energy.

Any tips? I just want her to be able to enjoy her surroundings and keep her spirits up. She has barely been able to leave the house for lunch with family or friends, so this is a bit extreme for us to consider. We'll be staying in our room a lot more than usual, but looking for:

- Quiet areas of each park that she might be able to rest and recoup? For example, I know the area between Mission Space and Test Drive has a lot of benches and it's relatively quiet at times there
- Any medical areas that we could utilize? I know this is doubtful as they couldn't provide that to guests

We'll probably just plan 1-2 hours in the park to walk around and then just enjoy the resorts so we're close to the room when she gets tired. Thank you in advance for any advice!

Every Park has a first aid location.
I also recommend constantly having water ANS a cooling towel or fan on hand. Also sunglasses at all times.

there are a few nice areas in the parks to sit (for example my family and I love the back of UK pavilion in EPCOT by the gazebo. Unless someone is performing there it’s always shady and quiet).
I also wouldn’t do screen ride after screen ride.
this is coming from the girl who got a concussion while at Disney (I stupidly fell off the raft in Typhoon Lagoon lazy River and gave myself whiplash and a nice scrape on my elbow).
Also take it easy,eat smaller males throughout the day or snacks (for me I found salty food helped)

 

[DisneyOma]

Also take it easy,eat smaller males throughout the day or snacks (for me I found salty food helped)

I know it's a typo/autocorrect, but it made me giggle!

OP, I use First Aid for a spot to do my PT/breathing exercises while in the park. They have the nicest staff, and comfortable cots/beds to lie on. As long as there is an open cot, she can go in and lie down until she feels better.

 

[Selket]

She suffers from daily headaches, dizziness, nausea, light sensitivity and fatigue primarily, and she can go 1-2 hours but then needs a rest break for at least 15-20 minutes. I wouldn't imagine they have any areas that she could lay down or anything, but wanted to ask. She isn't planning on going on rides (I doubt she could handle much), visual stilumlation makes her symptoms worse, so even rides like Small World would probably ramp up her headache a couple notches. We are staying on property and I am trying to convince her to let me push her around in a wheel chair to conserve energy.

I had a brain injury a few years ago from a bike accident (yes I had a helmet lol) - had two types of brain hemorrhages, was taken to the trauma center and was in the ICU for awhile. Fortunately I didn't need surgery. The recovery was long. My first major trip was back to WDW - but it was a place I feel super comfortable, know it well without a map, etc. I dealt with constant headaches for a loooong time. There are medications that can help if she wants to ask her neurologist about them.

I have badly arthritic knees so I use an ECV anyway...but I've found after my head injury it gave me a lot of freedom to make my own space to rest and hang out. I can park out of the way but also where there's not a lot of people (or benches) and get a Starbucks or something and relax. A WC or rollator would provide a similar place but the ECV provides so much independence for me I prefer it (and have a hard time walking for too long). Remember that any of those you use... she can park it and walk whenever she wants. It's very easy to park and walk and come back to it (or send you to get it) when she needs it. I also think the seat can recline somewhat on the ECV but not sure on that. I suggest renting one from off site (I prefer Gold Mobility but there are many vendors). They also rent wheelchairs but not sure about rollators.

I was able to do rides and something like Small World I don't remember being an issue for me - but bumpy rides (Safarii in AK) were more difficult. I was 6 months post-injury. Is she excited to go? As she still isn't leaving the house much (I was back to work 4 months post-injury), I'm somewhat concerned this is too much. I went to NYC almost a year after my injury and the first thing I did when I got in the hotel was to cry because it was overwhelming. Disney was just way more comfortable for me because I knew it so well. I think you just have to take the lead from her. Perhaps try a weekend trip or overnight close to home to see how that goes?

 

[c_los75]

My wife was in a car accident in June, a tractor trailer rear ended her vehicle, and she sufferred whip lash and a concussion from hitting her head against the steering wheel. We had a trip planned prior to the accident to disney and while she is suffering from major post concussion symptoms, she would still like to go, and I am trying to plan limited things for her to be able to do. She suffers from daily headaches, dizziness, nausea, light sensitivity and fatigue primarily, and she can go 1-2 hours but then needs a rest break for at least 15-20 minutes. I wouldn't imagine they have any areas that she could lay down or anything, but wanted to ask. She isn't planning on going on rides (I doubt she could handle much), visual stilumlation makes her symptoms worse, so even rides like Small World would probably ramp up her headache a couple notches. We are staying on property and I am trying to convince her to let me push her around in a wheel chair to conserve energy.

Any tips? I just want her to be able to enjoy her surroundings and keep her spirits up. She has barely been able to leave the house for lunch with family or friends, so this is a bit extreme for us to consider. We'll be staying in our room a lot more than usual, but looking for:

- Quiet areas of each park that she might be able to rest and recoup? For example, I know the area between Mission Space and Test Drive has a lot of benches and it's relatively quiet at times there
- Any medical areas that we could utilize? I know this is doubtful as they couldn't provide that to guests

We'll probably just plan 1-2 hours in the park to walk around and then just enjoy the resorts so we're close to the room when she gets tired. Thank you in advance for any advice!

Do you absolutely have to go now? If a simple lunch outing with friends is tough for her, I can't imagine how being around thousands of people will be for her. Maybe wait until she can handle it. WDW's not going anywhere.

 

[Luna81]

Did she get a DAS pass? Just in case she decided to try a ride.

I’ve had two concussions and deal with post concussion syndrome years later. A couple things I’d suggest. Look up ear plugs for musicians. They cut down the intensity of the sounds, but you can still hear people talk. This helps when I’m over stimulated.

I hope this part is okay - If she isn’t yet - look into occupational therapist who specialize in concussions or dizzy/balance issues. And see an eye doctor. The therapies helped me a lot. And I also needed glasses with prisms. One of my main issues was that my eyes wouldn’t work together right. My focal vs ambient vision.

my daily headaches were cut down sooo much once I started taking magnesium per the neurologist.

She may already be doing all these things. But it took a year after my second concussion before I found an occupational therapist who specialized and an eye place that did as well.

I still have problems. And am nervous about our trip. But going to give it a go too.
Going to follow your thread for quiet place ideas as well. Sorry I’m no help there.

 

[tcrandal]

Thank you all so much for the advice!!! I am taking notes on all the great posts and will integrate them into my plan. We're staying at AKV for 4 nights, and then Bay Lake Towers for 4 nights. We'll take advantage of walking over to Magic Kingdom from Bay Lake.

We aren't going to get a DAS pass, we feel funny, as she looks like nothing is wrong with her, but sadly that is very far from the case. I don't think she could really handle any of the rides, but car rides aren't as bad for her anymore. She is seeing an occupational therapist and we have been trying to get her into a eye doctor that specializes in concussions and light therapy, but just having delays getting them into the one specialist in the area. Her eyes are definitely not working together based on the tests she has had and she's doing daily exercises with the Brock String and videos to help.

So many great people here, really appreciate everything!

Luna- Your advice knowing that you know exactly what she is going through is invaluable. It's really hard to explain the challenges she is experiencing, and everything you mentioned is what she is going through. Good luck to you on your trip as well!!!!!

 

[Luna81]

Thank you all so much for the advice!!! I am taking notes on all the great posts and will integrate them into my plan. We're staying at AKV for 4 nights, and then Bay Lake Towers for 4 nights. We'll take advantage of walking over to Magic Kingdom from Bay Lake.

We aren't going to get a DAS pass, we feel funny, as she looks like nothing is wrong with her, but sadly that is very far from the case. I don't think she could really handle any of the rides, but car rides aren't as bad for her anymore. She is seeing an occupational therapist and we have been trying to get her into a eye doctor that specializes in concussions and light therapy, but just having delays getting them into the one specialist in the area. Her eyes are definitely not working together based on the tests she has had and she's doing daily exercises with the Brock String and videos to help.

So many great people here, really appreciate everything!

Luna- Your advice knowing that you know exactly what she is going through is invaluable. It's really hard to explain the challenges she is experiencing, and everything you mentioned is what she is going through. Good luck to you on your trip as well!!!!!

I felt a lot of guilt over doing the DAS this time too. Because like you say - I look fine. But I did the video chat, explained my issues, and they had no problem approving it. I still feel guilty. But I’m trying to work through that.
I may end up not being able to utilize it. Won’t know until we are there really. But I wanted to give it a try at least.
But Yes. Sounds like she’s maybe not quite there yet.
I’m glad she does ok in the cars. I can drive about 15 minutes now. Still have trouble longer than that. And tomorrow is two years since my second concussion.

I hope she can get into an eye doctor soon. I was surprised how much the prism glasses helped. I remember telling the doctor “things got quieter”. Which sounds weird, right? But she laughed and said she hears that all the time. When our eyes aren’t fighting us, other things don’t overstimulate us as much. Like sounds. The Brock string was awesome! It sounds like she may have similar issues to what I did if that’s helping. Also- sounds weird - I started getting legos and putting them together. I couldn’t do a lot at once, but the occupational therapist was excited about how it helped my progression.

I am lucky to have an awesome and supportive husband. And it sounds like your wife has a supportive spouse as well. It can be so hard feeling like you can’t take care of yourself. It’s so helpful when he doesn’t make me feel like I’m less because of it.

 

[Luna81]

Oh! And the ear plugs I got are called “vibes”. It really helps that it cuts down the ambient noise, but I can still hear my husband and kid talking to me if needed.

 

[SueM in MN]

My DD has sensory issues and has found the parks really overwhelming right now after being home so much.
Just all the people and commotion, especially at MK. EPCOT has been an issue for her because of all the construction walls - it feels very closed in.
Sounds are also an issue for her. If you don’t have earplugs or lose yours, First Aid in each park has really basic foam ones. They were a lifesaver for us more than once.

 

[tcrandal]

Do you absolutely have to go now? If a simple lunch outing with friends is tough for her, I can't imagine how being around thousands of people will be for her. Maybe wait until she can handle it. WDW's not going anywhere.

Very fair point. We could definitely cancel the trip and take a hit on the DVC rentals that we paid the owners for, but I would rather bring her some joy in changing up things. She really, really wants to go, and we already know that it won't be a "normal" Disney trip for us, but just to have her be able to look around, see the Christmas decorations and enjoy the resort will be amazing. We are fine with taking it very easy and going at a pace that she will be able to enjoy.

If there is nothing else we've learned, it's better not to postpone things in life, as tomorrow is never guaranteed. I'd rather sit in the room at Disney with our family and bring some happiness to her that has escaped her for the past four months. We already have annual passes in our account to activate, so we won't mind if we only get to go to the park for an hour or two. The idea is that if she does get overwhelmed by her surroundings, I want to have the wheel chair and quiet areas, potentially the first aid locations to be able to allow her to lay down for 10 minutes or so. Her rest breaks are fairly effective at allowing her to recharge. If she does end up pushing herself too much, it would impact her for the days after.

So thankful for this forum and everyone's advice!

 

[tcrandal]

I felt a lot of guilt over doing the DAS this time too. Because like you say - I look fine. But I did the video chat, explained my issues, and they had no problem approving it. I still feel guilty. But I’m trying to work through that.
I may end up not being able to utilize it. Won’t know until we are there really. But I wanted to give it a try at least.
But Yes. Sounds like she’s maybe not quite there yet.
I’m glad she does ok in the cars. I can drive about 15 minutes now. Still have trouble longer than that. And tomorrow is two years since my second concussion.

I hope she can get into an eye doctor soon. I was surprised how much the prism glasses helped. I remember telling the doctor “things got quieter”. Which sounds weird, right? But she laughed and said she hears that all the time. When our eyes aren’t fighting us, other things don’t overstimulate us as much. Like sounds. The Brock string was awesome! It sounds like she may have similar issues to what I did if that’s helping. Also- sounds weird - I started getting legos and putting them together. I couldn’t do a lot at once, but the occupational therapist was excited about how it helped my progression.

I am lucky to have an awesome and supportive husband. And it sounds like your wife has a supportive spouse as well. It can be so hard feeling like you can’t take care of yourself. It’s so helpful when he doesn’t make me feel like I’m less because of it.

Wow, I'm so happy to hear that you are doing everything you can to get through this nightmare. I never understood how bad a concussion (mTBI and PCS) could be, until it impacted my wife. I've researched everything I can to try and help her symptoms (headache hat, theraspec glasses, TENs machine, heated back pad, etc), but every case is unique and there are so many pieces of the puzzle for her to get better. We are going to a concussion clinic, and they have been instrumental in getting all of the specialists lined up. She cannot drive, but she has gotten much better when riding in the car. The nausea / dizziness / headache ramp up, but not as much lately.

Two years is a long time to experience what you have went through, it's life changing and requires a strong person to adapt to the new way of living life. Support system is the critical part, and I would do anything to have my wife back even 80%. She's just starting a new medication for the headaches, we'll see if that helps. I know we're comparatively early in our journey than you, but were fortunate to get all these specialists lined up quickly. This happened during work, so we have to deal with all the workers comp rules and obstacles as well.

Do you still have fatigue and need rest breaks throughout the day?

 

[Lilsia]

Very fair point. We could definitely cancel the trip and take a hit on the DVC rentals that we paid the owners for, but I would rather bring her some joy in changing up things. She really, really wants to go, and we already know that it won't be a "normal" Disney trip for us, but just to have her be able to look around, see the Christmas decorations and enjoy the resort will be amazing. We are fine with taking it very easy and going at a pace that she will be able to enjoy.

If there is nothing else we've learned, it's better not to postpone things in life, as tomorrow is never guaranteed. I'd rather sit in the room at Disney with our family and bring some happiness to her that has escaped her for the past four months. We already have annual passes in our account to activate, so we won't mind if we only get to go to the park for an hour or two. The idea is that if she does get overwhelmed by her surroundings, I want to have the wheel chair and quiet areas, potentially the first aid locations to be able to allow her to lay down for 10 minutes or so. Her rest breaks are fairly effective at allowing her to recharge. If she does end up pushing herself too much, it would impact her for the days after.

So thankful for this forum and everyone's advice!

I think that you can still have a wonderful trip and not go on any rides, especially this time of year. I went when I was 7 months pregnant with my first and we did what you are saying, walked around the resorts, took it slow at the parks and only did the easy rides, etc. Epcot is great to walk around. Have a fun trip.

 

[Selket]

She really, really wants to go,

That's 99% of the battle right there. Even if she hangs out in the room, enjoys looking out the window (request a view - can't hurt to try) and enjoys the resort and a bit of parks it's good. If you're there at Christmas when the after hours parties are happening you might consider those - they are pricey but might be less crowded. The Halloween ones have been lower crowds.

I don't know what other upcharged events they may be offering these days (dessert parties that include the viewing area, etc) but those can be worth it if you have the money to avoid the crowds. I have done those and it was a big help. It really helped me to have a reserved place to be - so those events as well as table service reservations for dinner were very comforting.

There are viewing areas for fireworks and shows if she would prefer to sit in the wheelchair. Sometimes those spaces have a better buffer/more space. With a DAS I believe those areas can be used by people not in a WC as well of course - they can be crowded however so that's sort of hit and miss.

I suggest inquiring with Disney about the DAS - have her do it of course since it is for her but you could sit in with her on the call. The video chat option can be done at home. There's no harm in discussing it with them. I'd also take advantage of Genie+ and the paid LL options if she wants to do those rides. I don't recommend getting in any lines with a wait time more than 15 minutes unless she really wants to. The lines are loud, no doubt some tired and crying little ones, and can be hard to relax there (more a situation you want to flee from in my experience). Many people use a DAS or a wheelchair for short term problems - doesn't mean she will always need it - but if I was the CM I'd give it to her in a heartbeat just because I've been there and I know how difficult it is.

My comfort level with WDW (knowing the parks so well - knowing where things are) really helped me. If she doesn't know the parks as well, perhaps she would enjoy looking at some websites or a guide book to get familiar with where things are she is interested in. You've been on this board a long time so perhaps you both are well versed in Disney but if not, I think that would help a lot.

 

[Luna81]

Wow, I'm so happy to hear that you are doing everything you can to get through this nightmare. I never understood how bad a concussion (mTBI and PCS) could be, until it impacted my wife. I've researched everything I can to try and help her symptoms (headache hat, theraspec glasses, TENs machine, heated back pad, etc), but every case is unique and there are so many pieces of the puzzle for her to get better. We are going to a concussion clinic, and they have been instrumental in getting all of the specialists lined up. She cannot drive, but she has gotten much better when riding in the car. The nausea / dizziness / headache ramp up, but not as much lately.

Two years is a long time to experience what you have went through, it's life changing and requires a strong person to adapt to the new way of living life. Support system is the critical part, and I would do anything to have my wife back even 80%. She's just starting a new medication for the headaches, we'll see if that helps. I know we're comparatively early in our journey than you, but were fortunate to get all these specialists lined up quickly. This happened during work, so we have to deal with all the workers comp rules and obstacles as well.

Do you still have fatigue and need rest breaks throughout the day?

Yes. I still need rest and it can vary from day to day. My case is a little different in that I also have fibromyalgia. And this was my second concussion. I was still having post concussion issues from my first concussion when I got this one. It just made things that much worse I think (first one was five years ago now I think. )

My understanding is most people recover and do fine after. It just hangs on for me. The first year is critical. For me I still can’t do stuff like watch much tv. I’m ok with videos on the phone. But watching on our regular tv I’ll often pay for it if I do more than an hour or so.
The driving still makes me sick. Sometimes even being a passenger can. We drive to Disney. So I decided to get an audible trial and am going to try to listen to audiobooks with my eyes closed if I start to feel not well.
I really am so sorry she is going through this too. And ugh with workman’s comp. I hear that is a pain to deal with anyway. Add a brain injury on top of it…

My second one was a car accident too. And dealing with the car insurance was so overwhelming. Especially at the beginning when you’re not suppose to be looking at screens at all. I also work on a computer with three monitors daily. So that was hard to ease back into.

 

[cobright]

They say that when you are a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. Well, part of what I do (to stay busy ... sometimes get paid) is develop custom mobility tech. Usually some form of power-chair customization.

Human mobility (and one time a goose) a subject I think about a lot, and I'm willing to bet my new pair of shoes that if your wife makes use of a wheelchair/ecv (powered or pushed) she will be able to go much longer between breaks.

Part of what I do is develop custom self/assisted-driving software for powerchairs. The amount of math involved in the most basic aspects of getting from A to B is shocking. Thing is, all that math is still getting done when we walk on our own; just below the event horizon of our awareness. Even unaware, we are constantly calculating and plotting acceleration curves and multiple recursive loops of object avoidance, and that's part of what tires us out as we go about our days.

Rent an ecv to try out for a few days and just see if some of her baseline misery lifts just a bit.