Travel and Leisure

Increased emphasis on public accessibility for disabled people has opened up a whole new world for easier wheelchair travel. From walkways to buildings, people in wheelchairs are experiencing more freedom.

With more ramps, curb cuts, elevators, wider doorways and automatic door openers in public buildings, disabled people are encountering fewer obstacles. Airplanes, buses, trains and taxis are now better able to accommodate wheelchairs. This is due in part to the awareness of the needs of the disabled because of strong advocacy groups.

Thanks to them, traveling people in wheelchairs are able to live their lives to the fullest and see the wonderful world that’s waiting for them. Having said that, people of limited mobility still have to plan their holidays more carefully than others. Despite these societal advances, people who must travel in their wheelchairs still need to do some advance planning to ensure their comfort and safety, especially when planning vacations in foreign countries.

The accessibility of your destination, particularly if it’s a third world country or remote area, needs to be researched, as does your hotel, airline and accessibility to medication and medical facilities.

It’s a great idea to speak directly to a person at your hotel rather than making your reservation online. Inquire about accessibility and door widths in the room. As with anyone who travels, get a confirmation number for your reservation.

When booking your airline, not all offer the same time of service. Accessibility is generally not an issue but make sure that wheelchair space hasn’t been given to another traveler. Ensure that you can access the plane in your own wheelchair, or if not, what type of service do they provide. Will they stow your wheelchair in the luggage compartment and what assurances can they give you that your chair will not be damaged?

Some airlines may ask for a “fit to travel” certificate from your doctor, in which they must list the medications you’re taking, if any. This is also important when crossing international borders. This will assist in getting through customs or security with a minimum of disruption if you are found to be carrying prescription drugs.

Make sure you have proper travel insurance. This can’t be emphasized enough. This is key because often those bound to a wheelchair may have compromised immune systems making them vulnerable to all manner of viruses. There is also the possibility that a fall from the wheelchair could occur.