Tips For Senior Mickey Fans and Guests Requiring Medical Attention at Walt Disney World.

by Regina Hinrichs
dvcreg@wdwinfo.com

I'm in that limbo stage. I'm a member of AARP but not quite ready for the Senior menu at Denny's. Still, when I'm at Disney World, I notice that people have started to walk a lot faster than they used to. I know I'm not slowing down, or am I?

Let's face it, getting older is a fact of life and certain adjustments have to be made. There's no reason to sit in the hotel room while the family enjoys the parks. You can join in with the right planning.

1. Take the time to read the posted precautions for the attractions. There are some medical conditions that can be aggravated if you go on the ride. Please take the warnings seriously.
2. If you're with a mixed age group, rather than sit on the bench waiting for the others to enjoy the thrill rides, schedule a tour for yourself.
3. Fast Pass is a great system. While it is offered at many thrill rides, there are some milder attractions that have this option. Get familiar with how it works and you'll bypass the lines
4. Raise your hand if you're on medication. Thought so, me too. Don't leave your pills behind. If you do, call your Doctor to see if it's safe to go a few days without them. If not, have them call your prescription into a local pharmacy. The resort staff may be able to assist you in finding one that delivers or in recommending one that's a short taxi ride away.
5. If your medication requires refrigeration, all but the Disney Value Resorts have a small fridge in the room. If you are staying at either the All Star or Pop Century resorts, you can rent a refrigerator
6. Keep an updated list of emergency contacts with you. If you need help, it will make it that much easier to get your medical history
7. Carry your health insurance cards
8. If you're traveling during the hotter times of year, your age/health status can make you more vulnerable to problems. Take a look at our tips for dealing with the Florida heat.
9. Renting a car? If you're authorized for handicap parking, bring a placard with you.
10. Walking, walking, and more walking. If you're not used to it, you'll feel the effects after a few hours in the parks. Think about renting a wheelchair . I know, you don't use one at home, but you usually don't run a daily marathon. There's nothing wrong in getting the equipment that you need to enjoy your time at Walt Disney World.
11. If you do bring a wheelchair or ECV of your own, most of the Disney buses can accommodate them. If a bus arrives that is not equipped, the driver will contact transportation on your behalf.
12. All Disney Resorts have handicap accessible rooms. Be sure to request what you require before arriving at your resort.
13. Dietary restrictions are something many are faced with. The Disney staff is excellent at accommodating your needs. It's best if you make a dining reservation and contact the restaurant in advance.
14. First Aid Stations are located in each of the theme parks. There's no reason to go all the way back to your resort if you have a problem that they can help you with.
15. Vacations aren't cheap. You may want to consider purchasing trip insurance. If you have a pre-existing condition, do your homework to see if it's covered.