Travel can create meaningful memories for families. For people living with ALS, it can also present unique challenges that require thoughtful planning and the right support.
At ALS United Mid-Atlantic, our care team helps individuals and families prepare for safe, accessible, and enjoyable travel experiences. With the right mobility equipment, medical planning, and accessibility strategies, travel is possible, and empowering.
Planning Accessible Travel with ALS
People living with ALS often face obstacles related to mobility, respiratory needs, communication devices, and transportation. Our team works closely with families to create customized travel strategies that support:
- Power wheelchair transportation
- Respiratory equipment management
- Accessible lodging selection
- Emergency preparedness planning
- Safe air and ground travel
With advance planning and expert guidance, families can travel with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Real Experience: Navigating Summer Travel with ALS
Recently, Sarah, a Montgomery County, PA resident living with ALS, shared a video about her experience navigating beach travel with mobility challenges.
ALS Patient Reacts to Summer Travel Challenges at the Beach
Her story highlights common concerns, including:
- Sand accessibility for wheelchairs
- Navigating boardwalks and uneven terrain
- Access to beach wheelchairs
Stories like Sarah’s help other families better prepare for similar travel environments.
Expert Advice: How to Travel with ALS
Alisa Brownlee, ATP, CLIPP, CAPS, WSP, CEAC/Mastery, Home Accessibility and Assistive Technology Specialist, supports families in planning safe and accessible travel.
She recently contributed expert advice to Your ALS Guide in their resource:
Your ALS Guide: Travel for People with ALS—How to Travel by Van or Plane
Key topics include:
- Organizing important medical and personal documents
- Preparing for mobility and respiratory equipment
- Planning communication device access
- Working with accessible travel agents
- Traveling by train, airplane, cruise ship, or adapted van
- Flying with a power wheelchair
- Choosing accessible hotels and lodging
- Connecting with peer communities like the Traveling with ALS Facebook group
Flying with Power Wheelchairs and Medical Equipment
Air travel requires additional preparation. The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) offers practical recommendations for passengers traveling with medical equipment and power wheelchairs.
Important considerations include:
- Reviewing airline accessibility policies in advance
- Labeling and photographing mobility equipment before departure
- Carrying physician documentation for respiratory devices
- Communicating directly with airline accessibility desks
- Preparing backup batteries or charging solutions
- Understanding TSA screening procedures for medical devices
Proactive communication with airlines reduces the risk of equipment damage or delays.
Key Travel Tips for People with ALS
To help ensure a smoother trip:
- Plan Early
Book accessible rooms and transportation well in advance. - Confirm Accessibility Details
Call hotels, airlines, and rental services directly to verify:- Door widths
- Roll-in showers
- Elevator access
- Charging access for medical devices
- Prepare Medical Documentation
Carry:- Physician letters
- Equipment documentation
- Emergency contacts
- Medication lists
- Protect Mobility Equipment
Label wheelchairs clearly and take photos before air travel. - Connect with ALS Travel Communities
Peer advice from others living with ALS can be invaluable.
Support for Local ALS Families
If you have questions about travel planning, mobility devices, or accessibility resources, contact your ALS United Mid-Atlantic social worker or reach out directly to:
Alisa Brownlee, ATP, CLIPP, CAPS, WSP, CEAC/Mastery
Alisa@alsmidatlantic.org