Arthritis doesn’t have to hamper your ability to have a great vacation – and getting away may just make you feel better. Use these tips to organize and plan ahead for a wonderful trip.
1. Pick the Right Destination
Research destinations that accommodate people with mobility restrictions. Travel guides, professional tour operators or travel agents are good resources. Search “travel with disabilities” for lots of ideas.
Be realistic and plan activities within your capabilities. Rock climbing may be too strenuous, but a mountaintop helicopter excursion will afford the same view (maybe better!).
Seek advice from others who have taken similar trips. Plan your itinerary carefully, pace yourself, and leave plenty of time for rest. Before you go, consider talking to your doctor about preventive and self-help measures that are specific to your particular condition.
2. Pick the Right Accommodations
Getting a good night’s sleep can help you control your pain and give your body a chance to rest to prepare for the next day’s activities. Where you sleep is important! All places of lodging built after 1993 must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) but their accessibility levels may vary. Most large chains have an ADA “help desk” with someone who can answer general questions, but I recommend speaking with an on-site representative to confirm that your requests have been met. Features to look for when choosing your room will depend on your level of need, but here are some things to consider:
- How close is the room to the restaurant, pool, beach, and elevator?
- Are the bathrooms fully accessible, which means they have walk-in showers with grab rails, high toilets, and lever doors and faucets?
- Is the room big enough to handle a wheelchair?
- Does the facility have handicapped parking and access ramps?
3. Pack Right and Light
I can attest to the fact that packing light decreases stress on your joints – I too have felt the pain of lugging around my own suitcase overstuffed with shoes. Try to find comfortable luggage that is lightweight before you put anything into it. Look for wide, cushioned shoulder straps that you can place across your chest to distribute the bag’s weight if you can’t roll the luggage.
If you have small adaptive equipment such as a folding reacher, special eating utensils, blow-up raised toilet seats or microwave hot packs, consider packing them for your trip.
Check the extended forecast. Plan loose-fitting clothing for maximum freedom of movement, and layer it to adapt to changes in the weather.
4. Pick the Right Mode of Transportation
Try to make reservations well in advance as you will have more opportunities to get special seating on planes, trains, and buses.
Air: The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination based on disability and has made airlines and terminals much friendlier than in the past. Make an effort to fly nonstop direct. It may cost more, but not having to change planes and deal with a long layover is often worth it. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules change depending on the world situation. TSA recommends you call their help line 72 hours ahead of your scheduled travel time to find out what to expect during screening, and how to transport any equipment you may have. Call TSA Cares toll free 1-855-787-2227.
Train: Amtrak offers special accommodations, including accessible bedrooms and bathrooms, but they strongly suggest making reservations far in advance as these are limited. They offer rail discounts to a person travelling with a disability, along with one companion.
Bus: The major carriers are fully accessible and often offer discounted tickets to caregivers.
Ship: Most cruise ships have accessible state rooms that are big enough to accommodate a wheelchair and other needed equipment. You must reserve well in advance and speak with the cruise line’s representative about your specific needs.
Car: Here you will have the most control and freedom. If you are renting a car, treat yourself to one with as many power controls as possible.
Have a great vacation, and share some of your adventures with us!
Source: Everyday Health
