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Are you planning a family trip to Central Florida? If so, you’re in luck. We’re here with insider travel hacks curated especially for families with children.
We want to help you organize the trip of a lifetime, complete with all the fun while including much-needed downtime to keep you and your family healthy and your energy levels balanced. Keep reading to find out our helpful Central Florida family travel tips.
To put your mind at ease from the start, rest assured that we have everything you need or that you may have forgotten in stores and supermarkets here — including at many of the resorts’ markets right on the properties — so that you’ll always have a backup plan for any need that may arise.
That said, if you’re traveling with small children or an infant, remember to bring their important needs with you, such as diapers, milk/formula, snacks that they enjoy and easy-to-pack comfort items such as their favorite blanket or stuffed toy. Have a carrier or a foldable stroller with you so your little ones can rest as much as they need during your outings.
As far as clothing, pack enough clothes for any temperature changes. You’ll want lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for hot days, but plan ahead in case of rain or cooler nights. And don’t forget your sunscreen and to apply it generously to all of your family members before going out in the sun. It’s essential in the Central Florida heat.
When you’re on a Central Florida vacation with our many world-class theme parks, enticing outdoor attractions and notable restaurants, it can be a challenge to choose what you want to do with your time without experiencing “the fear of missing out” while also battling the fatigue that comes with trying to squeeze “everything” into a week or so. It’s hard enough on adults to push ourselves too hard for the sake of racking up experiences, but it can be especially hard on children to be stretched beyond their limits.
Our advice is to organize the attractions you most want to visit on a list first. Try to keep it varied and appeal to everyone’s most-desired wishes in your family. And schedule in a day or two of downtime, where you’ll not have any time accounted for. You can play with your kids at the resort’s pool, try an appealing restaurant or even rest in the room or walk the grounds of the hotel. Many of our resorts are attractions in and of themselves.
At the theme parks, be sure to take periodic breaks for snacks, meals and time to let your littles sit and rest their feet as well as their minds. It’s easy for children to become overstimulated from all the excitement, making it all the more important to let them rest. You might even be able to squeeze in naptime while waiting in line for an attraction. Keep everyone cool with plenty of water and consider portable fans.
The list of kid-friendly attractions in Central Florida will never exhaust itself, so choose wisely based on your children’s ages, interests and any sensitivities they may have to sensory stimuli.
Along with all the fun and magic of Disney World, here is a handy list of unique, kid-friendly ideas in the Orlando area that will appeal to many different personalities and can add variety and some more low-key moments to your trip:
However you choose to plan your trip, remember to take time to breathe and take in the beauty of nature whether in or outside of the theme parks. There is striking beauty everywhere you look. Be sure to point it all out to your children and take lots of pictures.
No matter where you travel in Central Forida, you’re never far away from medical care through AdventHealth’s Telehealth services, 24/7 emergency care, urgent care, prescription and medical equipment delivery and more.
While you hope you won’t need us, we’re always here if you do for any illness or injury experienced during your travels. We can even deliver your kids’ prescriptions, like antibiotics or inhalers, should the need arise. We want you to have a fun and memorable family trip of your dreams when you visit Central Florida, and to rest easy knowing that expert health care delivered with uncommon compassion is right around the corner.
Find resources for a healthy and happy vacation before you arrive and during your visit at AdventHealth.com/StayHealthy or Call844-471-HEAL (4325).
Exercise offers numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, managing weight, and reducing stress. Another key benefit is its role in preventing type 2 diabetes. Fortunately, exercise doesnt need to be intense or strenuous to be effective. Activities like walking, gardening, or other enjoyable forms of light exercise can be just as beneficial. However, people with diabetes should keep certain considerations in mind while exercising.Important Considerations for Exercising with Diabetes:Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is especially important for people with diabetes, as they are more prone to dehydration. Be sure to drink water before and after exercise, and take a water break every 20 minutes during physical activity.Foot Care: Pay attention to your feet. Physical activity can sometimes lead to redness, blisters, or sores. If you notice any sores that arent healing, contact your doctor for guidance.Monitor Blood Glucose Levels: Its crucial to test your blood sugar levels before and after exercise to ensure they are within a safe range. Monitoring your glucose levels helps you understand how exercise affects your body.Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any exercise program, consult a doctor or physical therapist. They can advise you on which exercises are most suitable based on your individual health status.Exercise can greatly benefit people with diabetes, but staying mindful of these key considerations will help make it both safe and effective.
Parkinsons Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination. Early signs may include tremors, slowed movement, stiffness, and changes in speech or facial expression. While there is no cure, therapy can significantly improve quality of life. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help patients maintain independence, manage symptoms, and slow disease progression. Mind & Mobility is a leading provider of Parkinsons therapy in Florida, offering both in-home and outpatient services.Physical therapy for Parkinsons focuses on improving gait, strength, posture, and flexibility. Therapists may use exercises such as large-amplitude movement training, resistance training, and gait re-education. These interventions help reduce rigidity and improve stride length and balance.Occupational therapy supports patients in performing everyday activities like dressing, writing, and meal preparation. Therapists may recommend adaptive tools and suggest ways to modify the environment to enhance safety and ease.Speech therapy addresses soft speech (hypophonia), swallowing issues, and communication challenges. Techniques such as LSVT LOUD can improve vocal projection and clarity. Swallowing therapy helps avoid complications like aspiration. An early multidisciplinary approach is critical. The sooner therapy begins, the more effective it can be in maintaining function and independence. Regular reassessments ensure the therapy plan evolves with the patients needs. Ultimately, personalized therapy can make a powerful difference in slowing Parkinsons impact and preserving quality of life.In addition to therapy, understanding the stages of Parkinsons Disease can help patients and caregivers anticipate changes and plan accordingly. The Hoehn and Yahr scale, commonly used to classify disease progression, ranges from Stage 1 (mild symptoms affecting one side of the body) to Stage 5 (severe disability requiring full-time care). Each stage brings unique challenges, and therapy plans must evolve to meet the changing needs of the individual.Non-motor symptomssuch as sleep disturbances, constipation, depression, anxiety, and cognitive changesare also common in Parkinsons and often under-recognized. These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life, even when motor symptoms are well managed. Occupational therapists often help address fatigue, energy conservation, and task sequencing, while speech therapists may work on strategies for cognitive-communication deficits. Mental health support and regular medical follow-up are critical.Medications like levodopa remain the cornerstone of Parkinsons treatment, but they are most effective when paired with an active therapy regimen. Exercise, especially high-intensity aerobic activity, has been shown to promote neuroplasticity and may help slow the diseases progression. Programs like Rock Steady Boxing, dance therapy, and aquatic exercise have grown in popularity for their ability to combine movement with enjoyment and social interaction.Caregiver education is another essential component of treatment. Therapists can train family members and aides in safe transfer techniques, cueing strategies, and environmental modifications to prevent falls and reduce caregiver strain. Support groups also provide valuable emotional reinforcement and shared resources for both patients and caregivers.Finally, technology is playing a growing role in Parkinsons management. From smartwatches that track movement patterns to apps that guide home exercise routines, digital tools can enhance therapy compliance and symptom monitoring. Telehealth therapy services are also expanding access to care for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges.The journey with Parkinsons is different for everyone, but early intervention, personalized therapy, and a proactive care plan can dramatically improve outcomes. By integrating physical, occupational, and speech therapy from the onset, individuals with Parkinsons can extend their independence, maintain dignity, and preserve their sense of identity far longer than previously thought possible.Mind & Mobility is a leading provider of Parkinsons therapy in Florida, offering both in-home and outpatient services. With a team of expert physical, occupational, and speech therapistsincluding those certified in LSVT BIG and LOUDMind & Mobility is committed to helping individuals with Parkinsons Disease maintain independence, improve quality of life, and age with dignity. Whether you need intensive one-on-one treatment or ongoing support, Parkinsons therapy in Florida from Mind & Mobility ensures care thats compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to your journey.
How Physical Therapy Slows the Progression of ALSAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrigs disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These motor neurons control voluntary muscle movement, and as they degenerate, patients gradually lose the ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually breathe. While ALS currently has no cure, one of the most effective ways to manage the disease and maintain quality of life is through physical therapy for ALS.The Role of Physical Therapy in ALS CareThe primary goal of physical therapy for ALS is to preserve mobility and delay the secondary effects of immobility, such as joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and contractures. A licensed physical therapist helps patients maintain as much independence as possible by designing a personalized plan that evolves with the progression of the disease. This often includes:Range of motion exercises to maintain joint flexibilityGentle resistance training to delay muscle weakeningBalance and gait training to prevent fallsPostural adjustments and positioning techniques for comfort and safetyEarly in the disease, patients can benefit greatly from moderate activity. As ALS progresses, physical therapy shifts focus toward symptom management and maximizing safety and comfort. Its important to note that overexertion can worsen fatigue and muscle breakdown, so therapists skilled in physical therapy for ALS closely monitor activity levels and patient response.Adaptive Equipment and Assistive TechnologyAnother important component of physical therapy for ALS is identifying and introducing assistive devices at the right time. As motor function declines, mobility aids such as ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), canes, walkers, and eventually wheelchairs become necessary. A physical therapist can evaluate the patients current needs and recommend equipment that supports function without promoting dependence prematurely.Additionally, therapists teach patients and caregivers how to safely transfer in and out of chairs, beds, and cars. Proper techniques reduce injury risk and promote confidence. Positioning aids like wedges and cushions may be recommended to prevent pressure sores and improve respiratory mechanics.Breathing and Postural SupportAs ALS progresses, respiratory muscles weaken, making breathing more difficult. Though this typically falls under respiratory therapy, physical therapists can assist by promoting postural alignment that supports better lung expansion and comfort. They may also coordinate with the rest of the healthcare team to time therapy when breathing function is at its best.Coordination with a Multidisciplinary TeamManaging ALS effectively requires a team-based approach. Physical therapy for ALS works best when integrated with occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and regular physician oversight. Therapists communicate frequently to adjust care goals, track symptom changes, and ensure that treatment plans reflect the patients current abilities and desires.Occupational therapists help with upper-body tasks and fine motor coordination, while speech-language pathologists support communication and safe swallowing. Physical therapists play a central role in preserving gross motor function and preventing complications related to reduced mobility.Emotional and Caregiver SupportALS impacts more than just the patientit deeply affects families and caregivers. Physical therapists often become trusted partners in care, providing emotional encouragement alongside clinical treatment. They also teach caregivers essential skills such as safe transfers, fall prevention strategies, and body mechanics to protect their own health.As mobility declines, home safety evaluations may be performed to recommend grab bars, ramps, shower chairs, and other modifications that enable patients to continue daily routines as independently as possible.The Long-Term Value of Physical Therapy for ALSWhile physical therapy for ALS does not stop the disease, its value is undeniable. Patients who participate in therapy tend to experience slower functional decline, fewer complications, and higher satisfaction with their care. Therapy helps maintain dignity, preserve autonomy, and extend participation in meaningful activities.At every stage, physical therapy for ALS must be individualized and responsive. Regular reassessments ensure the treatment evolves with the patients needs, and even small winslike maintaining the ability to stand or shift position independentlycan make a significant difference in quality of life.
AdventHealth Port Charlotte is a premier 254bed, fullservice nonprofit hospital serving the Suncoast region of Southwest Florida. Located in Port Charlotte with a freestanding emergency department in Cape Coral, it has been a cornerstone of the community since 1962 and officially became part of the AdventHealth network in 2025. The hospital is Joint Commission accredited and committed to delivering compassionate, whole-person care body, mind, and spirit.Core Services & Specialties24/7 Emergency CareFully equipped emergency rooms in both Port Charlotte and Cape Coral provide rapid access to critical care, including imaging (CT, ultrasound, X-ray), lab work, and trauma services.Heart & Vascular CareWith advanced cardiac catheterization labs, heart surgery, and accredited chest pain services, patients receive expert care for heart failure, arrhythmias, and more.Primary Stroke CenterCertified to provide immediate stroke interventions with a multidisciplinary team and state-of-the-art technology.Orthopedics & Spine ServicesOffers robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgeries for joint replacements, spinal issues, and sports injuries.Womens Health & MaternityAs the only hospital in Charlotte County with a licensed OB unit, it features a dedicated birthing center, Level II NICU, and comprehensive womens care.PediatricsDelivers inpatient and outpatient pediatric care for acute illnesses, chronic conditions, wellness visits, and vaccinations.Digestive, ENT & Pulmonary ServicesFull gastroenterology services, ear-nose-throat care, and management of chronic lung conditions like COPD and asthmaNeurologyTreats neurological conditions including epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, and multiple sclerosis with personalized care plans.Endocrinology, Eye Care & Mens HealthOffers support for hormone imbalances, diabetes, vision services, and preventive screenings tailored to mens health needs.Imaging & Lab DiagnosticsProvides mammograms, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, and full lab services for fast, accurate diagnostics.Bariatric Surgery & Wellness ProgramsOffers medically supervised weight-loss surgery, nutritional counseling, and holistic health programs guided by the CREATION Life philosophy.Primary Care & Senior ServicesFamily medicine, geriatrics, and chronic disease management are available, along with screenings and preventive care.Additional HighlightsFaith-Based, Mission-DrivenOperates within AdventHealths Christian mission, with spiritual care, prayer services, and wellness support for every patient.Community-FocusedStaffed by 900+ employees, 300+ providers across 40 specialties, and over 100 volunteers, AdventHealth Port Charlotte is deeply rooted in the surrounding counties including Sarasota, Lee, Collier, and DeSoto.Recognition & AccreditationRecognized as a Joint Commissionaccredited Primary Stroke Center and accredited for heart and neonatal services.Convenient AccessThe Cape Coral ER enhances regional emergency coverage and seamlessly connects patients to the full hospital network.AdventHealth Port Charlotte is more than a hospital it is a community health partner that combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether you're seeking routine care, emergency treatment, surgery, or wellness guidance, the team is committed to helping you feel whole.
AdventHealth Port Charlotte is a premier 254bed, fullservice nonprofit hospital serving the Suncoast region of Southwest Florida. Located in Port Charlotte with a freestanding emergency department in Cape Coral, it has been a cornerstone of the community since 1962 and officially became part of the AdventHealth network in 2025. The hospital is Joint Commission accredited and committed to delivering compassionate, whole-person care body, mind, and spirit.Core Services & Specialties24/7 Emergency CareFully equipped emergency rooms in both Port Charlotte and Cape Coral provide rapid access to critical care, including imaging (CT, ultrasound, X-ray), lab work, and trauma services.Heart & Vascular CareWith advanced cardiac catheterization labs, heart surgery, and accredited chest pain services, patients receive expert care for heart failure, arrhythmias, and more.Primary Stroke CenterCertified to provide immediate stroke interventions with a multidisciplinary team and state-of-the-art technology.Orthopedics & Spine ServicesOffers robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgeries for joint replacements, spinal issues, and sports injuries.Womens Health & MaternityAs the only hospital in Charlotte County with a licensed OB unit, it features a dedicated birthing center, Level II NICU, and comprehensive womens care.PediatricsDelivers inpatient and outpatient pediatric care for acute illnesses, chronic conditions, wellness visits, and vaccinations.Digestive, ENT & Pulmonary ServicesFull gastroenterology services, ear-nose-throat care, and management of chronic lung conditions like COPD and asthmaNeurologyTreats neurological conditions including epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, and multiple sclerosis with personalized care plans.Endocrinology, Eye Care & Mens HealthOffers support for hormone imbalances, diabetes, vision services, and preventive screenings tailored to mens health needs.Imaging & Lab DiagnosticsProvides mammograms, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, and full lab services for fast, accurate diagnostics.Bariatric Surgery & Wellness ProgramsOffers medically supervised weight-loss surgery, nutritional counseling, and holistic health programs guided by the CREATION Life philosophy.Primary Care & Senior ServicesFamily medicine, geriatrics, and chronic disease management are available, along with screenings and preventive care.Additional HighlightsFaith-Based, Mission-DrivenOperates within AdventHealths Christian mission, with spiritual care, prayer services, and wellness support for every patient.Community-FocusedStaffed by 900+ employees, 300+ providers across 40 specialties, and over 100 volunteers, AdventHealth Port Charlotte is deeply rooted in the surrounding counties including Sarasota, Lee, Collier, and DeSoto.Recognition & AccreditationRecognized as a Joint Commissionaccredited Primary Stroke Center and accredited for heart and neonatal services.Convenient AccessThe Cape Coral ER enhances regional emergency coverage and seamlessly connects patients to the full hospital network.AdventHealth Port Charlotte is more than a hospital it is a community health partner that combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether you're seeking routine care, emergency treatment, surgery, or wellness guidance, the team is committed to helping you feel whole.
AdventHealth Port Charlotte is a premier 254bed, fullservice nonprofit hospital serving the Suncoast region of Southwest Florida. Located in Port Charlotte with a freestanding emergency department in Cape Coral, it has been a cornerstone of the community since 1962 and officially became part of the AdventHealth network in 2025. The hospital is Joint Commission accredited and committed to delivering compassionate, whole-person care body, mind, and spirit.Core Services & Specialties24/7 Emergency CareFully equipped emergency rooms in both Port Charlotte and Cape Coral provide rapid access to critical care, including imaging (CT, ultrasound, X-ray), lab work, and trauma services.Heart & Vascular CareWith advanced cardiac catheterization labs, heart surgery, and accredited chest pain services, patients receive expert care for heart failure, arrhythmias, and more.Primary Stroke CenterCertified to provide immediate stroke interventions with a multidisciplinary team and state-of-the-art technology.Orthopedics & Spine ServicesOffers robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgeries for joint replacements, spinal issues, and sports injuries.Womens Health & MaternityAs the only hospital in Charlotte County with a licensed OB unit, it features a dedicated birthing center, Level II NICU, and comprehensive womens care.PediatricsDelivers inpatient and outpatient pediatric care for acute illnesses, chronic conditions, wellness visits, and vaccinations.Digestive, ENT & Pulmonary ServicesFull gastroenterology services, ear-nose-throat care, and management of chronic lung conditions like COPD and asthmaNeurologyTreats neurological conditions including epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, and multiple sclerosis with personalized care plans.Endocrinology, Eye Care & Mens HealthOffers support for hormone imbalances, diabetes, vision services, and preventive screenings tailored to mens health needs.Imaging & Lab DiagnosticsProvides mammograms, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, and full lab services for fast, accurate diagnostics.Bariatric Surgery & Wellness ProgramsOffers medically supervised weight-loss surgery, nutritional counseling, and holistic health programs guided by the CREATION Life philosophy.Primary Care & Senior ServicesFamily medicine, geriatrics, and chronic disease management are available, along with screenings and preventive care.Additional HighlightsFaith-Based, Mission-DrivenOperates within AdventHealths Christian mission, with spiritual care, prayer services, and wellness support for every patient.Community-FocusedStaffed by 900+ employees, 300+ providers across 40 specialties, and over 100 volunteers, AdventHealth Port Charlotte is deeply rooted in the surrounding counties including Sarasota, Lee, Collier, and DeSoto.Recognition & AccreditationRecognized as a Joint Commissionaccredited Primary Stroke Center and accredited for heart and neonatal services.Convenient AccessThe Cape Coral ER enhances regional emergency coverage and seamlessly connects patients to the full hospital network.AdventHealth Port Charlotte is more than a hospital it is a community health partner that combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether you're seeking routine care, emergency treatment, surgery, or wellness guidance, the team is committed to helping you feel whole.