Wheelchair rental

[wdwmickey]

I have severe arthritis in my ankle and occasionally have bad "flair-ups" that make it impossible for me to walk. If I take my meds right away it the pain usually improves in a day or two. Is it possible to rent a wheelchair in WDW if a problem arises? I understand that I would receive no special priveleges other than being able to tour the parks (which would otherwise be impossible). Would I need a doctors note explainig my situation? Thanks in advance for any info!

 

[earthfaries]

I think a better place for your question would be Disabillities but yes you can rent a wheelchair or better yet an ECV (electric scooter) They are first come first serve so if you decide later in the day you need one you might not get one. They go pretty quickly. I would suggest just getting one. You walk 5-15 miles in the Disney parks and you don't want to not be able to enjoy your vacation

 

[Cheshire Figment]

There is no requirment to have a doctor's note.

Wheelchair rental in the parks is $10 per day, or $8 if you pay for more than one day at one time. If you rent an ECV that is $35 per day plus a $5 refundable key deposit.

As a general rule wheelchairs are always available, but during the week between Christmas and New Year's Day they may run out. It is not uncommon to run out of ECVs, especially in the afternoons.

 

[wdwmickey]

Thanks guys! I wouldn't even consider an ECV (they scare me) but, it is nice to know that I can get a wheelchair if I need it

 

[ZoZo]

I would suggest that you rent an electric scooter (ECV) instead. I got terrible shin splints on my trip last month, and after suffering pretty severe pain for two days, broke down and rented an ECV. It was wonderful! I swear, if I hadn't been able to rent one, I would have had to go home early from my vacation (because it was too painful to walk). It totally saved my trip, and was totally worth the money (I think it was $29/day, and is transferrable if you change parks on the same day).

I think ECVs are better than wheelchairs because no one has to push you - you're under your own power.

You won't need a doctor's note - just to go the place where they rent strollers, and they can rent you an ECV. And, as you said, it doesn't really get you any special privileges -- it just saves you a lot of walking.

(PS - I just saw your post above - don't be afraid of ECVs! They're extremely easy to operate. I had never driven one before and was surprised at how easy it is!)

Good luck - have fun on your trip!

 

[disnut8]

Just a note on the wheelchairs. I'm five foot nothing and weight 100 pounds. I easily pushed my husband around Disney World for five days in a wheelchair. The chairs are not that hard to push.

 

[amery]

At the end of the day, WDW is obligated to accomodate you wherever and whenever possible. In the case of those with special needs however infrequent, it then becomes an ADA compliance thing.

You shouldn't have to show a note. If the need is legitimate than do what you need to do to make yourself as comfortable as possible. In 2005, I was recovering from knee surgury and opted for an ECV over the wheelchair so that I wouldn't be a burden to my wife (I do that at home anyway).

If your arms are strong enough, more power to you.

 

[wdwmickey]

I never thought about DISablilites. I went over there and found lots of good info. Thanks