• Be sure to take your Joint Replacement Patient Identification Card with you. This will identify you as someone with metal implants which is important for airport metal detector clearance.
• Carry about one-third more medication than you think you will need, in case you unexpectedly extend your trip or your conditions worsen.
• Ask you doctor for the names of appropriate physicians in the areas you'll be visitng, in case you need prompt medical attention.
• Always travel with a brief medical history of yourself, particularly the details and dates about your disability, the medications you take, plus the name and phone numbers (office and home) of your physician.
• When you return home from your trip, forget your usual routine for a few days, return to it gradually. Allow your body to rest from the trip.
• Advance preparations are important for any trip. When a person has a disability, advance planning becomes even more important. Allow plenty of time.
• Evaluate tours carefully to see if it is right for you.
• For further information regarding hotels, specialized travel agencies, or other disabled travel resources, please contact the Therapeutic Recreation Department.

Many Airlines Now:

• Do not require that a disabled traveler in good health travel with a companion or have a special certificate from a doctor.
• Accept wheelchairs and other aides for storage in the cabins.
• Many planes now offer aisle armrests that raise to allow wheelchair transfer and two mid-cabin lavatory doors that can be opened to create a private area for disabled travelers using the lavatory that have assistive devices and more interior space. It is best to ask ahead of time if the scheduled flight will accommodate your needs.

Air Travel Tips:

When planning to travel by air, a disabled traveler should let the airlines know the following:

• The nature of the disability, what assistive devices are used (i.e. crutches or wheelchair and if the wheelchair is electric powered.)
• If local means of transportation to and from the airport can be used; is help required for entering or leaving from vehicles or from the parking area to the terminal.
• Is assistance is required to enter or leave the aircraft, to get to your seat or to the lavatory.
• Is help required at meals or particular diet required.
• Is assistance required with luggage when checking in or out.
• Will another person accompany the disabled traveler.
• Choose non-stop flights or direct flights.
• Make reservations early so the best seats for you will be available.
• Use restrooms before boarding as many on smaller planes will not be accesible.