Rider Swap ?

[RescueRanger]

Hi guys! I am new to this section of the forums. We recently got guardianship of my wife's sister. She has Down Syndrome and is an adult. We are taking her on her first trip to WDW, so it will be a new experience for her as well as us. My question is whether we will be able to use rider swap with her or not? There are certain rides that we are sure she will not want to do. Do we need to get a GAC card to be able to use rider swap for her or will we just need to talk to the ride CM because her condition is apparent?
Also, anyone who has gone to WDW with a loved one with Down Syndrome, please fell free to offer any tips or advise. TIA

 

[SueM in MN]

Welcome to disABILITIES

If you have not looked yet, post #6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread has information about Guest Assistance Cards. You would not need one to do a Rider Swap - even though people call them “Baby Swap”, WDW does call them Rider Swap and doesn’t limit them to children. Your best option, from what I know, would be to talk to the CM at the ride line entrance who is greeting guests.

To give advice, it would be helpful to know a little bit more about your wife’s sister, since one person with Down Syndrome may have a lot different abilities/interests than another.

Does she have any health problems (some people with Down Syndrome have heart or orthopedic issues)?
What is her level of understanding (different people with Down Syndrome can range from small child to college educated adult in cognitive ability)?
Are there any things she especially likes or dislikes?
It would be helpful to know which attractions you think she would not want to go on and what about them you think she would not like. That way, we can give better advice on things she would like.

 

[englishrose47]

I am going to Disney in October with 8 Develomentally Disabled !! While I am a Disney Vet this is my first time with the Disabled !!I have vacationed on Road Trips with them before and what I have found is they are like anyone elsee they have their likes and dislikes both with food and activities !!
One thing I am a little concerned about is the rides that don't stop for you to get on!!As I don't know them I can make no plans and will have to play it by ear!!! I will be fortunate in having another escort with me so we can take turns with rides and watching !!!