bichonandon Posted August 17, 2017 #1 Share Posted August 17, 2017 We are second time cruisers, and are taking my mother in law with us, who has some mobility issues. She has lost a great deal of muscle mass over the last few years, has hip problems, and joint pain. She can't walk for long without having to stop and sit down. She does not use a cane or walker, but insists on using her companions to hang on to. She is embarrassed to use any type of device. We have been talking with her about her options, and I do intend to bring a foldable cane with me so she can at least try it if she so decides. I'm hoping to get information on how long wait times might be for us to embark, and especially I'd like to know if anyone has some idea how many ramps we will encounter? FTTF is sold out. Any information about this process which might help would be much appreciated. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JaneyLynn Posted August 17, 2017 #2 Share Posted August 17, 2017 The ramps onto the ship are extremely steep. I don't have mobility issues just a little out of shape and it's rough for me. If she would agree to let Carnival take her onto the ship with a wheel chair it will be in her best interest. The added bonus is she (and anyone in her party) will get onboard after the Diamond, Platinum and FTTF. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare chasinraynbowz Posted August 17, 2017 #3 Share Posted August 17, 2017 Keep your eyes open on the FTTF as they may open more soon. DO NOT go before your check in time because they won't let you in. To get up to the check in area, you go up an escalator. They also have an elevator, if thats better. Once checked in, you will head over and be seated until boarding begins. Getting onto the ship is all uphill and not a short walk. I think we walked up the ramp and turned and then headed up the next ramp 4 different times before we got on the ship. Just take your time and hopefully she will be fine. If this won't work I do recall seeing them have wheel chairs to help folks get onboard. Best of luck!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
buslady1 Posted August 17, 2017 #4 Share Posted August 17, 2017 We are second time cruisers, and are taking my mother in law with us, who has some mobility issues. She has lost a great deal of muscle mass over the last few years, has hip problems, and joint pain. She can't walk for long without having to stop and sit down. She does not use a cane or walker, but insists on using her companions to hang on to. She is embarrassed to use any type of device. We have been talking with her about her options, and I do intend to bring a foldable cane with me so she can at least try it if she so decides. I'm hoping to get information on how long wait times might be for us to embark, and especially I'd like to know if anyone has some idea how many ramps we will encounter? FTTF is sold out. Any information about this process which might help would be much appreciated. If she uses her cane and you tell them she can't walk it they will transport her and the entire group on with the fttf people. We do this with my mom, she can walk but not that far Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
loxley Posted August 17, 2017 #5 Share Posted August 17, 2017 If she uses her cane and you tell them she can't walk it they will transport her and the entire group on with the fttf people. We do this with my mom, she can walk but not that far Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Does she realize how big the ship is? I suggest a wheelchair/scooter for the trip. My mom has the same problems and resisted help but has now admitted how much more she was able to enjoy the ship with a scooter. She balked at first, but we stood firm. Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
easyboy Posted August 17, 2017 #6 Share Posted August 17, 2017 She should accept to be on a wheelchair at least on embarkation. She will have a hard time walking on the gangway. With your description of her mobility issues, It may not be enough for her to cling to just one person on embarkation, and stall others in moving. Suggest you get in touch with Special Needs, and she can decline if she doesn't really want to. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Schoifmom Posted August 17, 2017 #7 Share Posted August 17, 2017 If she uses her cane and you tell them she can't walk it they will transport her and the entire group on with the fttf people. We do this with my mom, she can walk but not that far Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk They don't do this any longer. There is no more Special Needs group. She will board with her assigned group. Sent from my iPad using Forums Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peajay84 Posted August 17, 2017 #8 Share Posted August 17, 2017 I'd convince her to get a "walker chair" just for this trip. You can get one at Walmart for under $75. Not only will she enjoy herself more but so will everyone else in her party. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Drive-Medical-Four-Wheel-Walker-Rollator-with-Fold-Up-Removable-Back-Support-Red/28647754?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227019105038&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40753322192&wl4=pla-78606399992&wl5=9024972&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=28647754&wl13=&veh=sem Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lostsoulcruiser Posted August 17, 2017 #9 Share Posted August 17, 2017 My wife needed a cane on our last cruise. When we entered the terminal, a Carnival rep asked us if we would like some assistance. After answering yes, a very nice lady came with a wheelchair and took us through the system quickly, up to putting us on the ship. We gave her a nice tip, everyone happy. Let Carnival help with her embarkation. Everyone will start their vacation in a good mood. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bichonandon Posted August 17, 2017 Author #10 Share Posted August 17, 2017 Wow thanks everyone for the great info! Lots of options to research and discuss! Happy travels! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
grantbob Posted August 18, 2017 #11 Share Posted August 18, 2017 I second the walker chair recommendation. Folds up out of the way, helps her stay stable, and gives her a place to sit when she needs to rest. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
storelady Posted August 18, 2017 #12 Share Posted August 18, 2017 Go to some of your local thrift stores. You can usually find walkers cheap. No need to buy a new one for just one use or even if she wants to use it in the future for trips that involve a lot of walking. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dsotm73 Posted August 18, 2017 #13 Share Posted August 18, 2017 They don't do this any longer. There is no more Special Needs group. She will board with her assigned group. Sent from my iPad using Forums Since when? They were doing this last January and we were counting on similar treatment this December. MIL and PIL have mobility issues. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Schoifmom Posted August 18, 2017 #14 Share Posted August 18, 2017 Since when? They were doing this last January and we were counting on similar treatment this December. MIL and PIL have mobility issues. It has been almost a year. They can still get wheelchair assistance, but will board with their assigned boarding group. Sent from my iPad using Forums Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
watermelonqueen99 Posted August 19, 2017 #15 Share Posted August 19, 2017 The gangway is somewhat steep. Her best option is a wheelchair, I would encourage her to go with this option if I were you. Nothing she should be embarrassed or ashamed over! :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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