With peak travel season quickly approaching, I wanted to remind group planners to consider the needs of of all member of your group. Even the most exciting travel opportunity can create a few obstacles for a person with a disability.
Good to know: According to Open Doors Organization research: 69% of adults with disabilities (more than 21 million people) have traveled at least once in the last two years. And, by 2030, nearly 24% of the U.S. population will be disabled.
Thanks to the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 most mobility obstacles have been removed or minimized in the United States but laws don’t cover all the practical challenges. The best advice I can give is to not be afraid to ask questions. It’s important to know as much as possible about the person’s abilities and limitations and their desired level of independence or assistance. Find out if any particular equipment is required for the person to get around, when or if they need an assistant while traveling, and whether the hotels, attractions, etc. accommodate those needs. You can check out the website for the Society of Accessible Travel and Hospitality for travel tips and resources.
Also, when coordinating group transportation (check out CoachQuote.com orGroupTravelPlanet.com) consider not just the obvious – getting from point A to point B but what problems you could encounter along the way. What is the roadside plan if there is a breakdown? It’s important to konw if the hydraulic lift on a charter bus can support a particular wheelchair as knowing weights, makes and sizes will be important to successfully on-boarding all passengers. And once you arrive, are there particular entrances, paths, etc. that your transportation company and/or destination provides for travelers with mobility challenges?
Remember, each person with challenges has specific needs and varying attitudes and opinions about how they would like to be treated. Being aware and anticipating those needs will ensure that everyone is included in the group.
Check out the March issue of GTP Magazine for a deep look at this issue.
