this post was submitted on 02 Feb 2026
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Have a bit of a problem (well, not my problem but worried).
P's are going on a Japan cruise in Mar for 2 1/2 weeks. Ol' girl isn't really in great shape for it.
Problems are myriad.
The farthest I can get her to walk is about 650m on the flat (took 8 months to go from 300m). Shit stabillity at the knees and general walking.
Food wise is going to be a disaster (even though it's a swanky boat).
Ol' boy is a severe A type. Every time travelling as a fam it was stressful af. Race here and there at full speed etc.
All my advice is falling on deaf ears. Proper knee brace (or 2), ol' boy thinks a bandage will do the trick (it won't), double down on supplements in the lead up, wheelchair going through terminals (that went down well), try different japanese takeaway places here in melbs a few times before going so as to give an idea what can be eaten.. bring clothing that's basically for vic apline weather (gets cold on a 25 degree sunny day even when walking w/ a polar fleece).
All of it generic advice, all being ignored.
I'd be amazed if it isn't a train wreck or if there's an injury.
Not much I can do now to help except somehow bump calories (again) and hassle for more walks / at least something for leg strength.
Sometimes you gotta stand back and let stubborn people fail.
Why?
Failure teaches very little. Failure does not teach the right way to do things.
100%
Especially with adults. Choose to ignore sound advice and refuse help?
Heaven help you, cause I sure won't.
It doesn't but definitely shows that the wrong way doesn't work.
Having dealt with stubborn relatives in the past....I'm not dealing with consequences of their stupid decisions.
i can agree with that, there are a lot of people i will do nothing for
Especially when you've offered help and/or advice already.
Once it's refused, they're on their own.
Some people just need a reality check
Thatβs really concerning. He doesnβt seem to have insight into her condition or needs and wonβt be told.
Hoping he gets enough of a reality check to buy some warm clothes and find suitable food at least, and that she pulls up alright.
Is it possible to tell the airline and cruise staff theyβre coming and may need assistance?
Eeeep. Top notch travel insurance a MUST. Also check with cruise line about accessibility and accessible cabin etc., which may involve a surcharge. video
Cruise line and airline DEF need to know in advance.
Thanks for that. For sure. I hope they reconsider at least the airport terminal mobility stuff.
omg
can you pack an extra bag for them to take?
call up the travel agent/cruise in advance about the wheel chair?
Bring some Japanese take aways to their house ?
Oh dear. Please tell me there is top coverage travel insurance in place?!
There is.
It looks like a very (very) nice boat. Usually I'd look at how great it looks but going through the interior photos the only thing I'm looking for are hand rails lol.
If the boat gets knocked around a bit at sea and there's nothing to hold on to... yea... hrmm. Seems like a small thing until it isn't.
The walls are close by! Cruising is a valid option for people with mobility concerns, I have a few patients that struggle with day to day but will cope just fine on a cruise. The staff are usually excellent, there's lots of spots to sit and rest and the food options are usually pretty good too, but won't be to your feeding standards! If she wants to go, flag her mobility needs with wherever they are travelling through, and let them go. If something happens, it happens and worry about it then. She might have a great time, even an okay time is better than staring at four walls.