I will be taking my 75yo father to Ireland in the spring,He can walk a few about 20 steps but that is his limit. I would can bring a transport chair (four small wheels) or a traditionl wheelchair (2 big wheels/2small)if it would work any better. My concern getting the chair around with all the cobblestone streets. thanks.
Posted by
San Diego, CA, United States
864 posts
I was in Ireland in 2007 and upon reading your e-mail I thought "I don't really remember alot of cobblestones except in Old Londonderry and Trinity College." Whipped out my photo albumn to confirm. Think I'd still go with the regular wheelchair though...the streets can be rough and uneven. I wasn't paying particular attention to this issue as it didn't really relate to us but I will say that in general Europe is rough on the disabled. A function I think of having old transport systems, old construction etc. I mean, really, if you make some old building suitable for wheelchairs how do you preserve the historical integrity of the building. It's a no-win. That said I presume you will be driving your Dad around. Wonderful way for him to see the country and, while they do drive on the other side of the road, once out of the city traffic is very very light. Super friendly people. When we picked up our car at Shannon a guy from the rental company had us follow him to the main highway so we wouldn't get confused in the congested airport area. Oh, before I forget, having two people on as drivers almost doubled the rental rate. Rather an unpleasant surprise that. It's only happened to us in Ireland (usually husband/wife are considered one driver). Hope you have a navigator. AND FINALLY, most rental cars are stick-shift. If you can't drive a shift make sure you get an automatic (also more expensive).
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
As a general statement only, Europe is not as accessible to those with special challenges as is the US. Rick has written a book on Accessibility and here are links to sites that may provide further info: accessibility sites
Posted by
Wilmington, DE, USA
712 posts
Check out this web site to see if they can be of help ....http://www.iwa.ie/..... and also.....http://www.assistireland.ie/index.asp?locID=151&docID=4878
Posted by
OP
berlin
2 posts
Thanks for your input! I already have a transport chair and it is very light. I can acquire a wheelchair but fear it will be heavier and harder to get in and out of the car. Was kind of looking for an easy way out.
I am also very hopeful with the info that cobblestones may not be as common as I thought.
Thanks again.
Posted by
Columbus, OH, USA
208 posts
Karri -
We took my father in a WC to London, Paris and Scotland. If you can get a WC with mountain-bike type tires, you would be better off. The skinny 10-speed like tires are difficut.
That being said, cobblestones are a MAJOR pain - which is why I recommend the wider tires. It would make it easier. I would also consider keeping a flat-head screwdriver with you. Why? In case your tire comes off of the wheel - you'll need a way to get it back on. Yes, this happened to us! About 5:30am as we were heading to Paris for the day. We luckily found a newspaper stand open and they were able to help us.
Also a major pain - curb cuts. Do NOT expect a smooth transition from the sidewalk to the street. I had a running start with my dad in the chair in Paris to the sidewalk with about a 3/4 inch rise - almost lost dad! He learned quickly to hold on.
Enjoy your trip!