Hi, Brenda, and welcome to planDisney! I'm delighted to learn that your trip is quickly approaching, and soon you'll be in the middle of The Most Magical Place on Earth. I frequently travel with my elderly parents, and I'd love to share my tips with you for navigating the parks. Thanks for asking!
First of all, I'm happy to share that most everything is
accessible with a walker. If taking Disney transportation, you may be asked to fold up your device once you're settled. On attractions, you also may be asked to leave it with a Cast Member after boarding the ride. I've linked some information up above to help you learn more about what to expect, but I also find it helpful to ask a Cast Member at each attraction about the process.
As my parents have aged, we prefer to tour the parks by area or land instead of zig-zagging back and forth chasing the shortest wait times, like we used to do when they were younger. I call this minimizing our steps while maximizing our fun. We also take advantage of
Lightning Lane Passes to help us with reduced wait times. If we absolutely have to wait in a longer line, we take a break first. We'll find some shade, grab a snack and cold beverage and rest a bit before joining the queue.
When it comes to dining, we like to plan our biggest meal of the day (with air conditioning) during the hottest part of the day if we plan to be at a Disney Theme Park during that time. This helps conserve energy while allowing us to rest, recharge and refuel, getting us ready for the rest of the day.
My parents enjoy having a seat for fireworks, so we are fans of the
Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Seats & Sweets to watch
Happily Ever After. We check in as early as we can so we have plenty of time to enjoy the desserts and beverages. At EPCOT, booking a
Rose & Crown Fireworks Dining Package or a
Spice Road Table Fireworks Dining Package also ensures a seat and great views for
Luminous The Symphony of Us.
During your trip, I also recommend checking the
My Disney Experience Mobile App for accessibility information. Click the three horizontal lines at the bottom of the app and scroll down until you see "Accessibility & Health Services." Click on that and scroll until you see "Services for Guests with Mobility Disabilities." There you'll find information on access available for each attraction. Keep in mind, most of the information is for wheelchair or ECV users, but many processes are the same for users of walkers as well, which is why I recommend checking with a Cast Member at each attraction.
Lastly, stay hydrated, and take breaks as you need them. Things like neck fans and cooling towels are also helpful for added comfort. It's ok if you aren't able to get in as many attractions as other Guests. The important thing is that you have fun and feel good.
Brenda, I hope you have a fantastic trip. Please bring any other planning questions you have back to us here at planDisney.
Have a magical trip!
Melanie