Disney Welcomes Visitors with Ambulatory Needs

by Heather Long | More from this Blogger

07 May 2007 03:02 PM

One of the great things about Disney World is the accessibility that the attractions feature for visitors whether they are ambulatory or not. In fact, the majority of the rides, shows, restaurants and more are designed to accommodate guests in wheelchairs and more.

Visitors Can Rent ECV

Visitors to the Disney theme parks can also rent electric carts if they need assistance in their mobility. ECVs offer the non-ambulatory an easy to drive vehicle to travel throughout the park. This gives guests tremendous freedom as they travel the length and breadth of the park. On our last visit to Disney World, we encountered a couple that needed an ECV for the husband.

He'd experienced a stroke the year before and though he was recovering well, walking was still difficult for him. They'd planned this excursion to Disney World for sometime and they hesitated after his stroke, they kept hoping his walking would improve. When it didn't, they debated canceling their trip, but their travel agent urged them to go regardless because Disney would facilitate his need for ambulatory assistance.

When we spoke to them about it, he expressed his gratitude for having gone. He and his wife were enjoying their Disney experience. They came, just to be together and to enjoy the magic. The ECV's and ambulatory assistance made available in the parks afforded them few worries.

Just Ask

If you or someone your family has ambulatory needs and you're traveling to Disney World, don't hesitate to ask cast members for assistance and guides. All the theme park maps have attractions that are handicap friendly marked. Also, if you talk to a cast member who doesn't seem to know the answers, ask to speak to a manager. The managers are all cast member veterans and they know all about the special services offered by the parks and more.

Have you or someone you know ever traveled to Disney World or other Disney theme parks and needed ambulatory assistance? What was your experience?

Related Articles:

My Secret Disneyland Diary

Preparing for Emergencies While Visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland

Learn more about Heather Long

Heather Long is 35 years old and currently lives in Wylie, Texas. She has been a freelance writer for six years. Her husband and she met while working together at America Online over ten years ago.

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