Know that physical handicaps come in a variety of forms that need to be catered to when traveling is involved. Though some physically handicapped travelers are wheelchair bound, others may have difficulty walking, be unable to drive, or may have impaired or disabled vision or hearing. All require special attention.
Consider the type, or types, of disabilities you will need to work with to make the travel as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Different individuals will have very different types of needs.
Arrange for adequate transportation. The tourism industry can be very accommodating on bus and train trips and flights, but often, they need to be made aware of special needs in advance. Airlines can place an individual in seat on the plane, stowing the wheelchair, or walking aids, below the plane. Many are also welcoming to necessary equipment such as oxygen tanks, seeing eye dogs, and more.
Make sure all individuals' traveling with you have all necessary medications with them, including enough of a quantity to last through the trip. Ask them to prepare a list of physicians' names and phone numbers, including the specific disease or health condition they may suffer from. If there is any chance of an emergency situation -- a seizure for a diabetic, for example -- ask them to outline the measures needed to be taken in such an event, in case there is no medical staff around.
Arrange for handicap-friendly accommodations. Most modern hotels are equipped with facilities catering to the physically handicapped... these include elevators with braile, wider doorways and navigable spaces, lower countertops and hand rails in restrooms. Handicapped rooms are also usually easily accessed right off of an elevator, or right inside a door, minimizing the distances to walk to a room.
Check with the traveler for any special dietary needs. This will be important when transportation is long and requires snacks or meals on board. Some destinations, such as resorts, can easily cater to a special-needs diet if notified in advance.
Consider renting a car through a handicapped-accessible rental car company should the handicapped person require his or her own transportation. AVIS is one company that now offers services to clients with mobility, hearing or vision disabilities.
