Visiting Walt Disney World can be a daunting task. There's so much to do and see that you may feel like you need a vacation after your vacation. Add having a disability to the mix and things can get really overwhelming. This guide will help you to enjoy your time and find ways to beat the stress and difficulties that may occur.

Staying at a hotel on property will make things much easier. You'll be able to use all of Disney's transportation systems and avoid getting in and out of your own vehicle. Plus you can take advantage of the early morning or evening hours of the parks.

Ask for a handicapped room. These rooms at Disney are top notch. They have a shower seat, a wheel in shower and a low bathroom sink. Most are located on the first floor too.

All busses, monorails and most boats are equipped for wheelchairs and scooters. You must know how to back up to get on the ramp to use the transport. So practice!

If you don't own your own mobility device then you can either rent one at the parks or rent one from a company that will allow you to have it for the full time you're at Disney. I recommend this since there is still a great deal of walking to do at your hotel and around the World.

When you go to any of the parks make your first stop at Guest Relations. There you can ask for a card that allows you to stay in the shade while waiting for an attraction and/or not wait in line. Please don't take advantage of this priviledge. If you are well enough to sit in your scooter or wheelchair then just skip this.

But don't feel guilty if you get fatigued easily and will need to have this exception made. This card is also helpful for children or adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders or ADD. If you are on line and see someone who looks healthy using this card, please understand that there are many different reasons that someone may need this.

While at Guest Relations get a copy of the WDW Disabilities Guide. This is a wealth of information that you should have. You can even request this before you arrive so you can plan accordingly.

For people with visual impairments there are braille guide books and listening devices that can be obtained from Guest Relations. For those who have dietary issues it is usually quite easy to find something good to eat that fits your diet. For special needs and especially for special meals at a sit down restaurant, calling ahead would make things easier for you. For diabetics, you can keep your insulin refrigerated at the nurse's station at any park. You can also get a free small refrigerator in your hotel room.

There are many guest or co-gender restrooms available throughout the park. This is a large bathroom separate from the ladies and mens rooms. You can assist an adult or child in these rooms and it is easy to manauver a wheelchair or scooter, even easier than a handicapped restroom.

Make sure you take time to relax! Just sit and people watch, see a parade, or go to your hotel during the day and take a nap. You don't have to do it all on your vacation. You may end up getting sick and not enjoying yourself. Some people even take one day to lounge around at their hotel. Go swimming, sit in the hot tub or go shopping. Do whatever it is that relaxes you.

Walt Disney World does go out of its way to accomodate anyone with a disability. For example at any counter service restaurant a Cast Member should assist you in bringing your tray of food to your table. Just ask if you need help.

Always let Cast Members know if there's a problem but let them know when something went well or someone went out of their way to help you.