AARP Hearing Center
Vacationing with a veteran in a wheelchair can be challenging. Everything might be going along smoothly — and then you’re faced with steps to enter a restaurant or a small bathroom door that’s nearly impossible to maneuver through.
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My husband, Rick, and I have encountered these scenarios, and more, way too often. Rick served in the Army in Vietnam. Due to his exposure to Agent Orange, which resulted in a brain tumor, he now spends most of his time in a wheelchair.
But even though Rick’s disability limits our travel options, it definitely does not rule out vacationing. And who is more deserving of a hassle-free getaway than a veteran? That said, we no longer indulge in spontaneous outings. There was a time when, if we got bored, we’d simply hop in the car and take off for parts unknown. These days, we must plan ahead.
Yet, even with some planning, we’ve faced challenges. Rick and I recently rented an Airbnb that the owner had claimed was perfect for someone in a wheelchair. Not only did we end up having a handyman build a ramp from the bedroom to the living room, but my husband was unable to use the shower —actually a tub — since he can’t climb into a tub without bars. So I decided I’d rather spend a week with his body odor than all day in the emergency room.
That experience and many others have taught me the proper questions to ask and things to look for when traveling.
Bathroom
Make sure there are enough bars near the toilet and in the shower. Most important, make sure the shower is a walk-in without any steps that has a seat.
Bedroom
Ask how high or low the bed is. And make sure there is room for the wheelchair to move easily around and pull up to the bed.
Restaurants
Most eating establishments have ramps, but not all of them. When making a reservation, ask about the accessibility of the entrance and how long the wait for a table could be. Also, make sure the tables are far enough apart for a wheelchair or scooter to make its way through.
Parking
Handicapped parking spots should be conveniently located. You’d be surprised how many shops and restaurants have their handicapped spots at a back entrance even though their ramp is located at the front.
