rosaleendark

Hi all,
My trip to Rome & Florence with my mother is coming up faster than we can believe and we're so excited! My mother can walk for short distances only and has a hard time standing so I'm thinking about renting a wheelchair for the couple of occasions that might merit the convenience of a chair (despite the cobblestones!). If someone has a suggestion on where I can rent a wheelchair in Rome (we're staying near Piazza Navona so somewhere nearby or perhaps at FCO would be handy). Thanks so much!

Viajero2

rosa-- I admire your desire to do something so nice with Mom..., but those cobblestones are nasty! You mentioned she would use it "for those few ocassions" but it seems your Mom is going to have to use it far more frequently that you seem to anticipate. I say this with the best wishes that you both have a great time, but I would consult with the hotel first as they may have a wheelchair for guests and can give you a better reality check.

BTW, if we were talking about Madrid, Barcelona or Paris, I would be far more enthusiastic.

rosaleendark

Thanks Viajero. We're renting an apartment and either staying close to home base or taking driving tours or taxis around the city and not going to any museums (we've both been to Rome at least 3 times), just mainly spending time with friends who are meeting us there. The only major time she'd be faced with the walking/standing dilemma is possibly when we go to the Vatican for a Papal Audience. Thanks for the suggestion - I will call the agent at the rental apartment.

yeadonite

I ahve you thought about buying an inexpensive chair here? a transport chair is around 100.

LoveItaly

Hello rosa! Here is the section from the SlowTravel website that should be of a big help to you regarding your mother's need for a wheelchair.

http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/accessible/rome/index.htm

Viajero2

rosa-- that was going to be my next suggestion; rent a unit from the USA- manual/collapsible/light. Pharmacies typically have wheelchairs for rent just for this type infrequent need. Last time I did this for my Dad (same situation), I paid $50 two week rental. Besides, if something happens to the chair it would probably be better for you to deal with it at home....

kybourbon

Commune di Roma has an service called Handy Turismo. You can contact them with any questions through their e-mail on the website.
http://www.handyturismo.it/modules.p...e=Infohandicap

rosaleendark

Thanks for great suggestions everyone! I'll let you know how it turns out, plus a trip report when we get back

furs

The yellow pages (available also in English) have plenty of listings for wheelchair rentals -- www.paginegialle.it

menachem

transport chairs are vile. it's very tiring, being in a wheelchair, even if (exactly if) it is pushed and transport chairs are worst in that respect. The cheaper the nastier.

janisj

This is a ten year old thread???