In an interesting study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in March 2013, it was revealed that baby boomers are twice more likely to use assistive walking devices than the generation before them.

“Today, the ability to use an assistive walking device is easier than ever, and it’s accepted more than at any other time in history,” said Andrew Garnett, president and CEO of Special Needs Group. “These devices can not only help travelers to realize their travel aspirations, but tremendously enhance their ability to enjoy life in general.”

Advancements in technology, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the disappearing ‘stigma’ of using assistive walking devices have all contributed in opening up a world without barriers.

The cruise industry has made great strides in addressing how best to accommodate passengers who use assistive walking devices, allowing many individuals to turn travel dreams into reality.

Some highlights of the important accessibility changes across the cruise industry include more ramps, lifts, railings and grab bars in public venues, more spacious corridors, wider doorways, automatic doors, and the addition of wheelchair/scooter accessible staterooms.

Cruise lines provide complimentary wheelchair assistance for embarkation and disembarkation only. If travelers require assistive walking devices during the cruise, they can bring devices from home or rent through a service, such as Special Needs Group.

Special Needs Group, Inc. is the leading global provider of wheelchair rentals, scooter rentals, oxygen rentals and other special needs equipment rentals. It also offers a broad range of special needs equipment for purchase. Recommended by the world’s major cruise lines for superior service and value, Special Needs Group also services guests visiting hotels, resorts, theme parks and convention centers. Special Needs Group is the only mobility and oxygen equipment supplier that is approved to deliver to all major cruise lines.

While most modern cruise ships adhere closely to ADA standards, older ships were retrofitted to conform to the new accessibility requirements, making them not quite as easy to navigate. A travel professional is able to guide guests to the appropriate ship, itinerary and stateroom category to fit their needs.

At iCruise.com, our cruise specialists are certified Special Needs Group Accessible Travel Advocates™ and are equipped with knowledge and resources to effectively serve travelers with disabilities and special needs.

For more information on Accessible Cruise Travel, please call and speak with one of our certified iCruise.com cruise specialists by dialing 800-i-CRUISE [800-427-8473]

About Alara Shannon, Cruise & Travel Writer

Alara has traveled extensively since an early age. After the birth of her daughter, when an opportunity for a career in cruise travel presented itself, Alara decided to re-enter the workforce. She hopped on board with one of the largest cruise agencies and excelled in both cruise sales and customer service. This led to the chance to dive headfirst into the Internet Marketing world; taking on the roles of resident Bloggess, custom content creator and social media expert. Beyond a love of anything travel related, her life revolves around her family of four (husband + 2 little ones), writing, playing piano, coffee, recycling, and crafting (well, attempting to craft). Her dream destination? New Zealand!