Disabled - Page 2 - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

PagodaSwan · 12-05-2005, 11:27 AM

This is my argument, Sue. The lines are forced by law to be disability friendly but they do not make things easy for those with health or disability issues to find things out from their websites. Its an age old problem where companies, not just cruiselines, are forced to do something but do the bare minimum to fall within the law.

Having said that, once aboard things appear to be fine, albeit with a few hurdles in the same way that you get in every day life.

I think I will incorporate disability/health issues in my trip report while I am away next week, it will be a fascinating insight into how things are done and how easy things are made onboard ship for people with these difficulties.

Perhaps others going on holiday soon could do something along those lines too, give an insight as what things are like for those without full mobility, sight or hearing. You don't need to be disabled to get the feel of how accessible or helpful a ship is, or not as the case maybe.

sue miller · 12-05-2005, 11:32 AM

On Princess, when you sign into the personalizer for preferences, there is a medical page that asks for your needs!!

Henrietta · 12-05-2005, 12:54 PM

Considering your wife's condition, you should plan to take a written medical history, drug list with all times, dosages, etc., names & phone #'s of all current medical personnel involved with her, etc. Pretend you and she are unable to speak and the information is needed. Put them in a ziplock bag and seal tight. Make 2 copies and 2 packages. ONe can be handed to the ship's doctor in case of emergency and you still have the other if she needs to be transferred off ship. Do not pack them in the same bag. Put one in each of your carry-ons.

Also take extra new prescriptions for everything she takes & MD orders on a RX form for administration of feeding, etc. Medical personal cannot administer anything without a doctor's order. Make 2 copies of these and put one copy in each of the above packages.

If she does well on a daily basis at home without requiring outside help, she should do just fine on board a ship. I do not see why her condition would warrent a disabled stateroom unless you want one.

My one concern with her type of condition would be if she would contract a noro virus which causes vomiting and diarrhea. This virus is endemic on board cruise ships. You might want to get a RX for each of these conditions just in case from her care giver.

I was afraid to cruise because of my life-long COPD. I found I didn't need to be. I just take my time, get my rest, take my treatments and enjoy myself. I"m 67.

Henrietta

Rex · 12-05-2005, 12:56 PM

Great post Henrietta with some great info there!

Moke · 12-11-2005, 10:04 AM

Henrietta..... many thanks for your good advice, I have to admit that having deealt with my wife's problem for several years most of which you have advised is already in hand, however its nice to know that we are getting it all right

Regards

Moke

bige1039 · 03-25-2006, 12:08 PM

I have a 90% hearing loss.

When I get on the ship I go to the Pursor's desk to inform them of my problem.I ask them for a child's bracelet with the muster station info.Ask for a decal to be placed on my door in case of an emergency.

Even though these things were never done before-the staff were very helpful in fulfilling my requests.

One of the biggest problems I find is that people with a medical issue do not make it known to others.Because of this ,the people in charge never had to deal with these issues.

For the cruise line monitors who read these boards-Hearing loss is a handicap under US Law.

My last ship was Carnival Liberty-a copy of the Trivia questions were given to me so I could participate-the staff went above and beyond to help me enjoy all activities.

houch · 03-29-2006, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bige1039

I have a 90% hearing loss.
One of the biggest problems I find is that people with a medical issue do not make it known to others.Because of this ,the people in charge never had to deal with these issues.
.

You are right. Mayn want to hide their disabilities thus others are unaware and can't help what they don't know about.

mohavemommy · 04-03-2006, 10:32 AM

Thanks for this info. I am considered mobility impared... but not in a wheelchair (yet)

and have a permanant disability tag on my car. I have had to use these services in the past on Carnival when I was doing worse.

Capt Data · 07-16-2007, 10:18 AM

I have several medical problems. I use a scooter and wheelchair. I always carry a list with me off the ship as well in case I have problems on land. It is in a seal bag so it will not get wet.

Here is a question do to my lack of knowledge about your wife's condition. If she is feeding will she be in the room for those 12 hours? If so may I suggest a balconey room would be best so that she can spend some time on the balconey while eating. Inside rooms unless H/C are very, very small. Also talk to your Room Steward about him cleaning the room. Ensure he knows that certain things are not to be touched/cleaned by him/her.

Char · 09-14-2007, 09:45 PM

Balcony rooms are very good for folks who can't be out and about as much. Just sitting on your own little private deck can do wonders for the soul!