Does Macy's or Bloomingdale's in NYC provide wheelchairs for customers?
 

We're taking my mother next week, who can walk for short distances but has lung cancer and becomes short of breath quite easily. It would be a lot more enjoyable if we could just take her around by wheelchair and since we're coming from Alberta, bringing one with us is not an option.

I was at both stores a couple of years ago but because I didn't need one I didn't pay any attention if they offered them at customer service and I can't find any info on their website.

Many thanks!

I don't know the answer to your specific question, but have you considered renting a wheelchair for your entire trip? All the medical supply places carry them, and I assume there's one in Manhattan.

I agree that the best idea is to rent a folding wheelchair (that can go in the trunk of a taxi) so yuor mom can use it whenever she needs it.

I don't know if the stores have wheelchairs - you would have to contact them directly. Iknow several of the major museums do - but don't know how many they have and think youneed to arrange in advance.

It would be much easier to have one of your own - so your mom doesn't have to do a lot of standing while you wait for a bus or a taxi. Any hotel should be able to arrange this for you.

You will need to call the stores directly, but I'm very interested in your answer. Please post back here and let us know. This isn't something I've ever considered before.

I know that Sam's Club, for example, does have those electric cart things people can either borrow or rent.

For example:

http://www.nysurgical.net/

Also inquire at your hotel. I've had mobility problems in the last few years and twice stayed a hotels that kept spare wheelchairs in the coatroom -- free to any guest who needed one. It isn't always mentioned on the website, though, and they may not want to let them out of the building.

This company will deliver a rental wheelchair to your hotel: www.bigapplemobility.com

I thought renting a wheelchair might be too much trouble but we might not have a choice. Macy's doesn't offer them, I can't get a hold of anyone at Bloomingdale's that knows and it's first come/first serve at The Met.

I'll try that link or check with the hotel and see if they can arrange something.

Thanks everyone :)

Why can't you bring one with you from Alberta?

Renting a wheelchair is easy and besides if someone in your party needs one you should be willing to whatever it takes to help that person. Simply contact the Concierge at the hotel you are staying at and ask them to arrange to rent one for you during your stay or you could go to the websites recommended above and make your own arrangements and have the wheel delivered to the hotel. All it takes is a phone call and that certainly isn't too much trouble.

Yes but
 

We went to Bloomingdale’s yesterday and yes they did have a wheelchair to borrow, however we had to leave the users passport with the security for her to use it, so make sure you take some valid I.D to borrow

I would rent a light weight transport wheelchair. They are easy to fold and put in a taxi. That way your would have it if you want to walk around NY.

The OP's mother has come and gone long ago. I hope she found her wheelchair.

Generally best to open a new thread when it's been 7 years. Some will look at the post dates and close it.

You can always include a link to this old one.