Parent Talk / August 2007
Flying the Coop
Parents who have raised and successfully launched their children often intend to make the most of their empty nest status with travel. But, when the time comes, some are reluctant because they just don’t get around as well as they once did. Their middle aged children may not understand, but according to the 2002 US Census, nearly 23 million people had difficulty standing for an hour and 21 million people had difficulty walking up a flight of 10 stairs.
But, that doesn’t mean empty-nesters should forsake their travel hopes. With some advance planning and a little education, younger parents can help their older parents see the world the way they always planned, no matter what their disability.
Many companies and travel agencies now specialize in providing accessible travel products and services. But, there are suggestions for older tourists that can make travel a little easier.
Even if mom or dad can walk, reserve an airport wheelchair if one - or both - tires easily. Some airports are huge and they could easily end up walking several miles while in transit, arriving at their destination exhausted.
If the travelers will need wheelchair accessible transportation from the airport to the hotel, choose a hotel that has a free airport shuttle. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, if the hotel provides free transfers, they must also provide free accessible transfers, even if they have to contract out the service.
Cruises are a great accessible vacation choice, but new cruise ships are huge and it can be very tiring to walk from one end to the other. If fatigue is a factor, rent mom or dad an electric scooter and have it delivered directly to their stateroom. Check with the cruise line for their approved vendors.
If parents are driving to the port, let them know parking is free at all Florida cruise ship piers for cruise passengers who have permanent accessibility modifications installed on their vehicles. And remind them to pack their accessible parking placard whenever they travel. It’s good everywhere in the US, (except for New York City), and in Canada and Europe.
For a European destination, remind parents that in Europe, the first floor is not at street level. If they need a room at street level, they must ask for a room on the ground floor. Many small European hotels only have stairway access to the first floor.
There have been publicized occasions where disabled individuals overseas were not allowed on a plane or excursion. In July, it became illegal for an airline, travel agent or tour operator to refuse a booking on the grounds of disability or to deny boarding to a disabled passenger. This applies to any flight leaving an airport in the European Union, and also to flights on European airlines arriving in the EU.
Older tourists appreciate the need for security and following rules, but they may not be required to remove their shoes at the airport security checkpoint if they are physically unable to do so. Let them know to just advise TSA agent of their inability. A hand wand will be used and agents may swab their shoes for explosive residue. Allow extra time for preflight check-in to avoid a rush.
Finally, encourage parents to do extensive pre-trip research, and expand their horizons. Although both offer once in a lifetime opportunities, the sites and amenities of Hawaii are much more accessible than those of Panama. And, the ADA is the law of the land in Hawaii.
With so many places and people that are interested in welcoming visitors who prefer a slower pace,there is no reason Mom and Dad shouldn’t get out and go. One website that may be helpful is www.accessibleproperties.net, which provides a fairly substantial list of accessible vacation rentals along with useful access information, like the availability of a roll-in shower or doorway width. Books like “Barrier Free Travel; A Nuts And Bolts Guide For Wheelers And Slow Walkers” by Candy Harrington can provide practical help as well.
Copyright © 2007 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
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