Cruise Ship Accommodations for Passengers With Physical Limitations Due to Disability or Age

Abstract

The American journaL o/OccupationaL Therap)1 M eyer 0922/1977) stated that each person has an intrinsic need for balance of work, play, and rest to attain wholesome living. Play, for adults, is referred to as leisure time or avocational activities. Leisure may encompass a wide varieey of activities from sports, to gardening, to art, to travel. The U.S. Travel Data Center (1993) reported that 740 million leisure trips were completed within the United States and

Cruise Ship Travel

“…Travelers with medical conditions should be advised to contact and make arrangements with the cruise line about their specific medical needs before departure. 14,54 Cruise ships built during the past 10 years generally have cabins designed to accommodate wheelchairs. Information regarding wheelchair access can be obtained from the individual cruise lines or the CLIA Web site.…”

“…14,55 Depending on the medical condition, some cruise lines may require that the traveler have a travel companion. 54 Cruise travelers can also verify a cruise ship's sanitation level and learn about ongoing or recent GI outbreaks through the CDC's VSP Web site. 10,22 Medical facilities on most modern cruise ships are comparable to those of a community urgent care center.…”

The role of occupational therapy in accessible tourism

“…For example, occupational therapists play a critical role in enabling people with disabilities to participate in activities of daily life (WFOT, 2020). The tourism literature has, however, noticeably neglected their role in delivering accessible tourism (aside see Darcy, 2004Darcy, , 2006Gallagher & Hull, 1996). The primary focus of occupational therapy is to enhance wellbeing and inclusion through occupational participation and the promotion of greater participation in society for people with disabilities (Rogers, 2005).…”