Wheelchairs 101

Step 1. Choose a destination. When you decide where you want to go, do not initially worry about whether the destination is wheelchair friendly. Start with a place you want to go to.

Step 2. Research the means of getting to your destination and accommodations when you get there.

• If you will be flying, check with the airlines to find out their procedures for people in wheelchairs. The goal is to find an airline that will all you to travel in comfort.
• While learning how the plane, train or bus can accomodate a wheelchair, also find out about their regulations. For instance:
  • Do you have to book a minimum of a certain number of days in advance. 
  • Do you need a certificate from your doctor certifying your physical (and possibly mental) ability to travel?
• When booking an accommodation:
  • Be sure there is either a ground floor entrance to your living space or there is an elevator that can easily accommodate a wheel chair.
  • Are the doors in the public and private spaces wide enough for a wheelchair?  
  • Are there inside steps?
  • Are there handicapped shower facilities available?
  • Can you get to the toilet?

IF you find the above steps difficult, consider contacting a travel agency that specializes in dealing with people who have specific needs. One way to locate such an agency is to look for for an agent that is a member of Society For Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH), www.sath.org  Tel.: 212.447.7284

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT TRAVEL, including what you need to know about medications, click here. For additional information about traveling with a wheelchair, see: www.wheelchairnet.org  Click on Community Living.

Please share how this information is useful to you. 0 Comments