wheelchair or ECV? don't know where to begin!

[wvulion]

On our last trip with my grandparents one preferred the ECV and the other a wheelchair. We had the experience of using both on one trip. I only mention this if there is a need for you to ever board a Disney bus--you have to do all the backing and whatnot yourself and it is tougher than it looks. If you are a first time ECV user, then it could be a problem. If you have someone willing to push, as we were, the wheelchair was so much easier to deal with. Most of the lines are compliant now, so there's no heading to the front, unless you obtain a red Guest Assitance Pass from Guest Services, which designates how many are in your party, but that only applies on a few rides. Also, when you watch Illuminations, there is seating for those unable to view the fireworks while standing, so you don't get blocked--it was a thoughtful touch my grandparents really appreciated-check it out. That said, stick close to the curbs if you're driving the ECV and put your family on the outside of you-it keeps people from cutting you off, and creates a barrier that will make driving easier through the hordes of people, and reduce your stress. Either way you decide to go, you'll still have a great time as my octogenarian grandparents (who were doubting Disney lovers!) quickly realized. The pixie dust was in no way diminished--have a great time!

 

[Piper]

On our last trip with my grandparents one preferred the ECV and the other a wheelchair. We had the experience of using both on one trip. I only mention this if there is a need for you to ever board a Disney bus--you have to do all the backing and whatnot yourself and it is tougher than it looks. If you are a first time ECV user, then it could be a problem. If you have someone willing to push, as we were, the wheelchair was so much easier to deal with. Most of the lines are compliant now, so there's no heading to the front, unless you obtain a red Guest Assitance Pass from Guest Services, which designates how many are in your party, but that only applies on a few rides. Also, when you watch Illuminations, there is seating for those unable to view the fireworks while standing, so you don't get blocked--it was a thoughtful touch my grandparents really appreciated-check it out. That said, stick close to the curbs if you're driving the ECV and put your family on the outside of you-it keeps people from cutting you off, and creates a barrier that will make driving easier through the hordes of people, and reduce your stress. Either way you decide to go, you'll still have a great time as my octogenarian grandparents (who were doubting Disney lovers!) quickly realized. The pixie dust was in no way diminished--have a great time!

The Guest Assistance Card does not guarantee front of the line access on any rides. (It says on the card that it doesn't shorten waits) It does state how many are in your party, but it also gives the individualized accommodations needed for the person with the disability to have equal access to the rides. For example, a person may not be able to do stairs or avoid rides in the sun This card alerts CMs to the needs of each individual. Many times it will actually cause you to wait longer than others boarding at the same time.

 

[wvulion]

Good point...my SIL has Cystic Fibrosis, which prevents lengthy stand times, sun exposure, and the like, so her particular issues differed from the mobility ones highlighted in the thread. That said, Disney does a great job of being responsive to special needs so no need to worry when it comes to vacation quality

 

[Debbie Jean]

just got off the phone with Alex at Apple scooters...reserved my scooter and they will transport it from one hotel to the next for us!. Now we may need something for DD also, she just sprained her ankle and is using crutches at the moment...when it rains, it pours

thanks for all the input!

After trying several different companies, I have used Apple the past few years and been very happy. The prices are excellent and they have great customer service... Alex is a pleasure to work with ... whenever I've had a problem... and, hey, squeeky wheels happen they have been very responsive.

Have a great trip!

 

[Betty Rohrer]

if you can use an ECV at store or mall before you go. will give you some idea how they drive. DD will have to be 18 i think to use evc at Disney.

 

[KPeveler]

just got off the phone with Alex at Apple scooters...reserved my scooter and they will transport it from one hotel to the next for us!. Now we may need something for DD also, she just sprained her ankle and is using crutches at the moment...when it rains, it pours

thanks for all the input!

Just so you know, you have to be 18 yrs old to rent a scooter from Disney. There are a couple off-site companies which may rent to a younger child, but generally only if that child has one at home and is choosing not to fly with it. I would look into getting a wheelchair for her - crutches all day in Disney are NO fun!

 

[cepmom]

thanks...DD is 21. She is leaning towards a wheelchair if she needs something(I think she will need something, even if she is off crutches by next week)