Taking Grandma to Disney When She's on Oxygen - How to Travel When Loved One Uses Oxygen
Traveling with older people with disabilities can be difficult. Those with oxygen tanks need special planning. Include the entire family on your next trip.
It might be time to take the family to Disney! If your family includes a loved one who uses an oxygen tank, it could pose challenges that you need to think about before you take that magical vacation.
Vacations are supposed to be memorable and fun. A vacation should be as stress-free as possible. You can make that trip to Disney World on oxygen pleasant and easy so that the entire family can have a great time!
How can you take the stress out of a vacation when you need to figure out the logistics of a portable oxygen tank? We've got some ideas! Here's what you need to know for traveling to Walt Disney World on oxygen to make the most of the happiest place on earth.
Bring Spare Batteries
Before you leave, test out your batteries to ensure they last as long as the manufacturer says they will. If there's a problem, reach out to the manufacturer and work on getting them replaced. Bringing along some spare batteries is a good idea, so even if the power runs out early, you aren't out of luck. Charge the batteries overnight, and you'll be good to go in the morning.
Talk With Staff Members
Reach out to Disney's staff members instead of searching for outlets to plug in your portable unit yourself. The staff are more than willing to help out and can offer insights into where you'll have the most luck finding outlets throughout each park. When you check-in for a meal, let your server know about your need for an outlet, and they'll do their best to seat you somewhere close to one.
Stay on Site
This is a good tip for anyone traveling to Disney World, but the convenience of staying on-site can't be understated. All Disney hotels come with complimentary buses to and from the parks throughout the day, and most of the bus waiting areas are shaded. Instead of waiting for a car in a sunny parking lot, you'll always know that transportation is right around the corner.
Another benefit is that you won't need to carry around your purchases. Give a cast member your room number after you buy something in a gift shop, and they'll have it sent to your room instead of lugging around a stack of clothing all day.
Wheelchairs
Older people might enjoy their time at Disney if they have a wheelchair. This is an ideal way to transport your loved one along with their tank for those who must live with an oxygen tank.
You can use their wheelchair at all Walt Disney World theme parks, but rentals are also available, which might be more convenient.
Medical Services
One concern when you travel with older adults is a potential medical emergency. Even a small medical emergency can become more complex when you are away from home.
Disney World has four emergency medical facilities and medical assistance response carts with paramedics and professional equipment stationed at each of the resort's four parks and Downtown Disney.
You can have greater peace of mind knowing your loved one can be quickly treated for any type of medical event that could occur. If your family member has other health issues, like diabetes, the villas have refrigerators available to keep insulin properly cool.
Flying on Oxygen
If you're flying to Orlando, consult with your doctor and check with the airline to ensure you can fly safely with your portable oxygen tank. The FAA has specific guidelines for your oxygen concentrator, so research the requirements and other important flying considerations.
You don't have to exclude an older family member on your upcoming trip to Disney. You can travel safely so the entire family can be together. A little planning will help make for a wonderful experience for the extended family.
Now that you know how to travel to Walt Disney World on oxygen, enjoy your stay at the fantastic resort. Ride the rides, have good food, and make some magical memories!
About the Author
Mallory Knee is a freelance writer for multiple online publications where she can showcase her affinity for all things beauty and fashion. She particularly enjoys writing for communities of passionate women who come together for a shared interest and empower one another in the process. In her free time, you can find Mallory trying a fun new dinner recipe, practicing calligraphy, or hanging out with her family.
Mallory Knee
Contributor since September 25th, 2020
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