TSA: Get A Room!

Traveling for work to a location that isn't your residence? Where do you lodge? You can either stay with a friend or family member. Or stay at the hotel hosting the event. The latter would be recommended by your employer, to avoid transportation costs. Works for me! The host hotels are typically quite fancy. But are they accessible? Accessibility varies for each individual. And hotels have their own criteria that, by law, must be followed. The process is simple. Just call the hotel, and ask about what you need. Of the ADA's list of accessibility regulations, this is what I try to ensure is standard or an option, when getting an "ADA room:"

1. Wide doorways - My wheelchair's width is about 32". So I ask if the width measurement of the doorways are 36". That gives me space for hanging bags on the back of my wheelchair.
2. Hosed/corded shower head - Bathing is one of the activities of daily living (ADLs) when I need full support. Having a shower head that can be brought down from the wall, allows the water can be aimed; which has been proven be much easier and dryer for the PCA helping me out.
3. Walk/roll-in shower - Related to the shower head modification, this type of shower provides ease when supporting me. The perimeter of a tub is very difficult to compete with during a transfer.
4. Shower bench/chair - Often, one is already in the shower or tub. I double-check, still, because there is absolutely no alternative for me. Standing time is very minimal for me. Five minutes a day, perhaps?
5. Sink flippers - I believe these are becoming more common everywhere because they're so convenient for everyone. With short arms and limited dexterity, I use a dressing stick  to reach/grab things. In this case, I use the dressing stick to open the faucet, by pushing/pulling the flippers. It's much easier than finagling with a knob. Then, brushing my teeth is one of the [few] ADLs I will be able to maintain independence while away from home.
6. Bed height - I will own a wheelchair that elevates. Until then, for me to get in and out of bed independently, I need the bed to be at or very close to my wheelchair's height (from the seat cushion to the floor.) I inquire about this so I can gauge in advance the time I will need with a PCA.

Remember, it is the law that hotels have accessible rooms or provide the reasonable accommodations requested at no additional cost!