Tips for Traveling Independently When You're Disabled
These days, more and more individuals with disabilities are deciding to travel alone, and the travel industry is paying attention, especially in Florida. Almost all hotels, restaurants, modes of transportation, and attractions in Orlando comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and make certain those who need the help of wheelchairs and scooters are able to get where they need to go and do what they need to do safely and easily.
In a perfect world, you wouldn't have to wonder if the particular hotel or rental car offers these accommodations, but it's important that you don't simply assume they do. By taking the following steps, you can ensure you can have the independent vacation you've always wanted.
Tips for Traveling to Florida Independently
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Always Call Ahead- While the ADA may make it a requirement for places in Florida to accommodate your disabilities, some of these locations will need to make arrangements beforehand. Call ahead of time, preferably when you're making the reservation and about 48 hours before you're expected to arrive, to confirm that the accommodations you need will be available.
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Be Specific- Keep in mind that not all service providers in Florida are going to know the lingo of traveling with a disability- or medical terms. Describe your condition in simple terms and explain it as thoroughly as possible so they know exactly what you'll need. Never downplay your issues.
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Your Doctor- Always inform your doctor about your trip, and be sure to get a note and a phone number from him or her before you leave. The note should include information about your disability or injury, any medications you are on, and special needs you may have.
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Choose a Scooter- While you may get around fine at home with the help of a regular wheelchair, when you're visiting Florida, consider an Orlando scooter rental. Scooters are powered, so you won't wear out as quickly, and you'll be able to enjoy the many adventures you plan to have. Scooters also allow you to remain completely independent. If you become tired halfway through a theme park, it will be easy for you to navigate your way out because you won't have to do any pushing.
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Don't Forget Transport- If you've made arrangements for your Orlando scooter rental to be delivered to your hotel, make sure you didn't forget about transport to and from the airport. If your disability or injury is severe enough that you cannot walk at all, you might need the help of your own wheelchair for transport or may need to rethink your arrangements for the Orlando scooter rental.
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Carry Medical Information- Medical information should always be on you at all times, and should be in a location where it will be easily seen by a medical professional who may have to help you. This information can be in the form of a necklace, bracelet, or even a wallet card.
Want to maintain your independence while traveling to Orlando, Florida? Always call ahead, use a scooter, and don't forget to think carefully about how you'll get from one place to another as soon as you plane lands.
Wheelchair vs Mobility Scooter: Which one is Better?
A few months ago, we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a mobility scooter vs. a power wheelchair, or power chair. Both have their benefits, but for the majority of individuals visiting Florida on vacation, and Orlando scooter rental is the best option.
But what about regular wheelchairs? It makes sense that some might consider renting a regular wheelchair instead of a mobility scooter on their Orlando vacation. After all, if they plan on visiting Disney World, some of the rides will require them to transfer from their scooter to a wheelchair in order to get on the ride. Is this small time-saver really worth giving up a mobility scooter, though?
Disadvantages of Using a Wheelchair for Your Orlando Visit
When you're trying to determine what type of mobility device to use, consider what you'll be giving up when you choose a wheelchair.
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They Might not be as Comfortable- When you're on vacation, you want to spend every moment possible enjoying yourself. In Florida, this often means visiting theme parks, dining at restaurants, and seeing the sights. While some heavy duty manual wheelchairs can offer a comfortable place to sit, light duty wheelchairs often provide no comfort or support for the buttocks and back. Mobility scooters have cushioned seats and back supports that will offer more support and comfort.
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Weak Upper Body- Do you have limited upper body strength? If you're pushing a manual wheelchair throughout the Disney theme parks, you're likely going to become tired and sore before you even get halfway through the attractions. This means you'll either have to go back to the hotel and rest before you can have fun again, or give up your independence and allow someone to push you through the parks. An Orlando scooter rental will allow you to enjoy the entirety of your day without help and without hurting.
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Injury- If you're experiencing a temporary injury or illness that requires you to obtain mobility help while you're on vacation in Florida, there's a good chance you haven't spent much time in a wheelchair. As a result, your arms and shoulders may not be prepared for the manual labor they must undertake when moving you from place to place. This can result in injuries to your muscles and can ruin your vacation.
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Speed- Orlando scooter rentals can travel at speeds of about 5mph; a wheelchair can only travel as fast as you can push it. In some cases, using a wheelchair may make it difficult for you to keep up with your loved ones as they enjoy their Florida vacation.
Despite their disadvantages, manual wheelchairs do offer a variety of benefits. They promote physical fitness, increase maneuverability, are easy to operate, cost less, and are easy to take anywhere you need to go.
If you're trying to decide whether or not to rent a manual wheelchair or an Orlando scooter rental, consider the way it will be used. Do you want something with more support? Choose a scooter. Want a transportation option that maneuvers well? Choose a wheelchair. Select the best option for your particular needs.
Disney Hollywood Studios: Must Have Tips
One of the most popular attractions in Disney is Hollywood Studios. Here you can enjoy rides, watch shows, and experience the movies you love up close and personal. Access is readily available for anyone to enjoy this attraction, even those who need the assistance of a mobility scooter rental.
If you're going to use an Orlando scooter at Hollywood Studios, however, there are a few tips and tricks you should know.
Tricks for Getting the Most out of Hollywood Studios
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For Most Rides- Get in the regular line if you don't immediately see a handicapped entrance. The Disney cast member will direct you where to go. If you do see a handicapped entrance, which are most often on the left, you can bring up to five members of your party with you through the entrance.
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For Most Theaters- The theater presentations at Hollywood Studios are spectacular, and it's easy for those with mobility scooter rentals to get a good seat. When you enter, most theaters will have seating at in the top row. Your family will be able to sit with you.
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When Leaving the Theater- Wait for the crowd to thin out before attempting to leave the theater. Many attendees will attempt to rush out to 'beat the crowd.' If you try to leave first, you'll most often find your way blocked.
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Use the Restroom- Before any show you see. You'll be seated first, and getting back out of the theater to use the restroom can be a pain and will mean you'll have to fight oncoming traffic. Use the restroom first so you avoid any troubles.
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Watch for CMs- The cast members, or CMs, are there for a reason. They can help you get to where you need to go and will know the best way to do so. Trust them and allow them to do their jobs.
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Switching Out- Some rides will accommodate your mobility scooter rental. Others will not. The cast member in charge of the ride will let you know whether you'll need to transfer directly onto the ride or into a wheelchair that the ride will support.
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Restaurants- All of the restaurants in Hollywood Studios are accessible to your Orlando scooter, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should use it. Some of the lines are rather narrow, and it may be best to have someone order and pick up the food for you.
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Arrive Early- As with anything, always try to arrive as early as possible. Rides, theaters, and restaurants will be much less crowded if you get there early instead of waiting until it is prime dining time or time for a particular ride to open up.
Are you thinking of enjoying Hollywood Studios while on vacation in Orlando? Use these tips to make the most of your time and enjoy everything this attraction has to offer. With a few tricks up your sleeve, you'll be able to use your mobility scooter rental without any trouble at all
Tips for Avoiding Falls in Your Vacation Home or Hotel
When you plan a trip to Orlando, Florida, you’re expecting the best of the best. You want magic, beauty, and excitement. You want to explore the various theme parks it offers, taste the best food, and enjoy luxury hotels and rental homes. The last thing you want is to become injured. Unfortunately, it happens, and when you have mobility problems, the likelihood of an injury increases dramatically.
So, what can you do about it?
Avoiding Falling on Your Vacation
- Scooter Rental in Orlando- Whether you’re traveling from your hotel room to the hotel swimming pool or you’re enjoying the magic of Disney, renting a scooter is essential to ensuring you’re as safe as possible. Being able to utilize the scooter will allow you to eliminate the need to walk any type of long distance, which greatly reduces the risk of falling or tripping, especially when your mobility is limited already.
- Equipped Hotel Rooms- When you plan your Orlando, Florida vacation, be careful how you make your hotel reservation. Be clear that you will be operating a mobility scooter and that your mobility is limited. Request a room that is on the ground floor, or one with disabled-access. As whether the room is equipped for individuals with limited mobility as well; the room may come with shower bars, hand rails, and lower countertops to accommodate for your needs.
- Equipped Vacation Homes- It’s much more difficult to find a vacation home with the scooter-friendly access, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Contact a realtor while you’re planning your trip. They will be able to help you find exactly what you need; this very helpful when you don’t live nearby and are unable to visit Orlando to find the perfect rental yourself.
- Go Clutter Free- Living out a suitcase isn’t very conducive to organization, but allowing the items in your hotel room to clutter up walkways can be dangerous. Even if you only have to walk short distances, like to the bathroom or to where your scooter rental is charging on the other side of the room, making sure path is free of any clutter will help you avoid falling.
- Rely on Help- There may be instances during your trip when you won’t be able to do what you want to do if you’re in a mobility scooter. For instance, some rides and attractions at the theme parks in Orlando will require you to transfer from your scooter to a wheelchair that will fit on the ride. Don’t be afraid to rely on a bit of help when you must make these changes. Being able to stabilize yourself on the arm of someone else can keep you from becoming injured and can keep the rest of your trip from being ruined. When you’re in your vacation home, think of things the same way. If you need help getting from your scooter to your bed at night, ask for help.
Want to make the most of your trip? If your mobility is limited, do everything you can to plan to avoid falling. Find the right hotel room or vacation home, get a scooter rental in Orlando, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Is Your Scooter Battery Power Declining? What Could be the Problem
So, you’ve been planning your Florida vacation for months, and now that you’ve finally arrived in Orlando, you can wait to start enjoying yourself. Because of your inability to walk for long distances, you’ve had to invest in an Orlando scooter rental, but you’re sure that using a mobility scooter will only enhance your enjoyment of the sunny Florida days ahead. If you want your mobility scooter to last and perform at its best, though, you have to make sure you’re doing everything possible to keep it running. Fortunately, this generally only means keeping the battery charged. Doing so will ensure you’re ready to go whenever you want to and also ensures you’re never left stranded without a way to get back to your hotel.
What if, however, you do everything right, charge the battery each night, but something seems to be wrong with the power? What if the battery is running low? Is your vacation ruined?
What Cause Scooter Batteries to Run Low
In most circumstances, the battery on your Orlando scooter rental will be a very reliable source of power. It’s designed that way, so it can keep up with your need to be on-the-go during your vacation. Most batteries can handle travel anywhere from ten to fifteen miles on a single charge.
If you notice your scooter battery doesn’t seem to be holding up to its end of the deal anymore, and the distance you’re able to go each day is less and less, there could be a few reasons behind it.
- Heavy Weight- Did you make sure to check the weight capacity of the scooter you were renting before you rented it? If your weight exceeds the capacity, or you’ve been allowing others to ride the mobility scooter, you’re putting extra demand on the batteries. This can cause them to drain much more quickly.
- Extreme Cold or Heat- Do you leave the scooter sitting out in the hot sun or turn the air conditioning down extremely low in your vacation home because you aren’t used to the Florida heat? Extreme hot and cold fluctuations can make the battery on your Orlando scooter rental work harder, which can cause power to deplete faster.
- Frequent Climbs, Starts, and Stops- Have you been visiting locations that require you to stop and start frequently? Have you been testing your scooter’s ability to handle hills and inclines? Compared to traveling over flat surfaces at a steady pace, battery power depletes faster with frequent climbs, starts, and stops.
How to Maintain Your Mobility Scooter Battery Power
In addition to ensuring the battery on your Orlando scooter rental is charged each night for its recommended time (generally six to eight hours,) make sure to charge the battery as soon as any power loss is evident.
If that doesn’t fix the problem, contact Florida Mobility Rentals to speak with our qualified personnel about any changes you may need to make in your operations, to determine if the battery on your mobility scooter might need to be replaced, or to determine if you need a scooter with a higher weight capacity.
Should You Rent a 3 Wheel or 4 Wheel Mobility Scooter?
If you have trouble getting around or are disabled because of an injury or illness, renting a mobility scooter when you’re planning an Orlando vacation is an excellent idea. However, there is a lot of thought that needs to go into choosing the best scooter for you. Mobility scooter rentals in Orlando are available in two different models: three wheel and four wheel. Depending on what you plan on doing on your vacation, where you plan on going, your height, and your weight, one may be more beneficial to you than the other.
Why? Some scooters are compact and designed for portability, travel, and indoor use. Others are better for rugged terrain and outdoor use. Let’s take a look at the differences between three and four wheel mobility scooter rentals in Orlando so you can determine which one is best for your personal mobility and which one matches your physical abilities.
Choosing Your Mobility Scooter
The Three Wheel Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters with three wheels can provide you with all the necessary ‘go’ you need to explore Orlando and its many attractions. Whether you intend to visit Disney World, Sea World, or just explore the local museums, however, you need to make sure this scooter is right for you. Let’s take a look at the best ways to use this type of scooter.- Three wheel scooter work best for indoor use or when navigating over smooth surfaces. This means they can be used for outdoor use, but in order to remain safe and upright, you should not travel with them over grass or uneven pavement. Choosing this scooter means you’ll need to stick to smooth sidewalks, roads, and parking lots whenever you’re outside.
- This type of scooter is brilliant for narrow spaces as it has a sharper turning radius. If your hotel has limited space or you plan on visiting restaurants that may be crowded, a three wheel scooter can get you in and out without much a hassle.
- Are you a little taller than the average person? Three wheel scooters are perfect for tall individuals, as they offer more leg room.
Four Wheel Mobility Scooters
Ready to get out and explore Orlando with your mobility scooter? Let’s take a look at the benefits it can provide and see if it is the right rental option for you.- Four wheel mobility scooters offer better weight distribution. This is very beneficial if you are a little heavier, as the mobility scooter is much less likely to tip over if you have to travel over hilly or uneven ground.
- This type of scooter can go almost anywhere, even over rough terrain. This means it’s the perfect scooter to take to Disney World, Sea World, museums, restaurants, or even the golf course.
- For some individuals, four wheel scooters simply ‘feel’ safer because of their sturdier, wider, and broader wheelbase. While three wheel scooters are perfectly safe, your peace of mind is important. If you prefer the four wheel scooter because you think it feels safer and more sturdy, it is the best option for you.
Planning to Swim in Orlando? Benefits of Finding a Hotel With a Zero Entry Pool
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando and you’re disabled due to an injury or illness, you’ve no doubt already begun looking for everything you think you might need. Your must-have list will probably include finding a location to rent an Orlando mobility scooter, researching Orlando theme parks to determine their ability to provide you with the services you need when you visit, and finding a hotel that has all the right accommodations.
While the majority of hotels in Orlando are extremely accessible to those who rent Orlando mobility scooters, some may offer more accommodations that you had imagined. They might offer rooms that are scooter-friendly and include wall bars to help you stand and transfer. Some might offer outlets right next to the bed, so that when you transfer from your electric scooter to the bed at night, you can easily plug the scooter in so the battery will charge. A few, however, will offer something more: zero entry pools.
What is a Zero Entry Pool?
Swimming is great exercise for everyone, but even more so for those with disabilities. It creates a weightless feeling that lets those who have difficulty with mobility control their movements better. Obtaining this exercise is hard, however, without access to a zero entry pool.
A zero entry pool is a type of swimming pool that has a shallow, sloping entrance, rather than a ladder or steps. This type of ramp generally starts out with about half an inch of water and then gradually deepens as you get farther into the pool.
For guests with disabilities, this feature allows immediate access to a pool. You can either use a water-proof electric scooter to enter the pool, or simply transfer from your mobility scooter to a standard wheel chair.
While most hotels have lifts that can help disabled guests access the pool, zero entry pools offer many benefits that these lifts don’t.
Benefits of Zero Entry Pools
- Available All the Time- Pool lifts may be much more common in hotels, but it is also very common for them to break down. Because of this, access to the pool is not always available to those who have had to rent an Orlando mobility scooter or those with mobility problems. Zero entry pools guarantee access every single day- and they don’t have to be replaced or repaired because they don’t have mechanical parts that will break down.
- Independence- Unlike with pool lifts, individuals who need the assistance of an electric scooter or wheelchair don’t have to wait until hotel staff is available to enter the pool. This allows them to maintain their independence.
- Safety- Because zero entry pools begin with only half an inch of water, disabled individuals can judge for themselves how far they should and should not go. Because those that are disabled are more apt to know their limitations, this often reduces chances of injuries and accidents.
- Fun with Families- Hotels that don’t offer zero entry pools are often filled with families who stay behind in their room or re-plan their activities, simply because their disabled family member can’t join in the fun. This isn’t what a vacation is about. Zero entry pools allow everyone to join in and have the time of their lives.
Your Electric Scooter and Zero Entry Pools
If you have to rent an Orlando mobility scooter to help you get around, consider finding a hotel that will make your vacation easier and a lot more exciting. Look for accommodations that you don’t normally find, like specially designed rooms and zero entry pools.
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