Moving to Ecuador with a disability

Bhavna · 2019-07-17T08:40:00+02:00

Explore essential tips for moving to Ecuador with a disability, including social benefits, medical care, infrastructure, and accessible activities.

Bhavna Team

Member since 01 June 2015

BhavnaTeam17 July 2019 06:40:00

41744

Hello everyone,

Having a disability should not be a barrier to living abroad. While the intricacies of one聮s move to Ecuador may be specific to the individual, certain steps can be undertaken to make the process smoother.

What are the important aspects you would personally keep in mind during the planning phase (social security benefits, ongoing medical treatment, etc.)?

Are you required to go through a medical check-up before your move?

Are there any organisations or groups who lend support to expatriates who have a disability?

What are your thoughts on the infrastructure in Ecuador (public spaces, transportation and buildings)?

Are there enough opportunities to make the most of your social life in Ecuador? Are leisure activities made accessible to people with disabilities?聽

Please do share your experience with us.

Bhavna

Lurch Member

Member since 06 May 2017

LurchMember23 July 2019 04:10:59

Well depends on your disability. I'm assuming it's something in the hips, knees Dept. I've been in Cuenca for nearly four years with two bum knees . I had a replacement knee done but the patella is loose and I have to wear a brace for it. After the knee聽 my sciatica started playing up so I wear a brace for that.
Cuenca is not a good city for these problems. In El Centro sidewalks are narrow and uneven.聽 Everybody falls at least once. The pavement height varies between nothing and 10". Restaurants invariably have a step up or stairs. Out in the suburbs where cars enter the houses there is a cut in the pavement of about 2' back. Very easy to fall. Buses have a narrow high stairs that turn through 90 degrees. Getting out is about a 2' drop at speed. Many houses have two stories with stairs.聽 If you are disabled the best bet is to live in an apartment building with an elevator. Take taxis to restaurant doors. It's not a disabled friendly city. Wheelchair bound don't come