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July 11, 2011
As summer approaches, many people experience the excitement and anticipation of an upcoming vacation. However, as a caregiver of someone with dementia, you may be concerned about what challenges will arise during your holiday. Although people with dementia generally do best in familiar settings, travelling can be successful and enjoyable given the right conditions and some careful planning. Below are some practical suggestions to consider for your next trip.
Preparation:
- If you are planning a long trip, consider taking a shorter trip ahead of time as a test. This will give you a good idea of the challenges you might face and whether a longer trip will be possible.
- Allow plenty of time to investigate the best travel and medical insurance policies for your situation.
- If you are visiting friends or family, update them on your current situation so they know what to expect. Give them specific suggestions on how they can be supportive, such as spending time with the person with dementia so that you can have some time for yourself.
What to pack:
- Bring familiar items such as a favourite sweater or slippers.
- Choose clothing that is easy for the person to put on and take off.
- Pack a list of current medications and a copy of your Representation Agreement if you have one.
- Bring enough medications to cover the period of travel, including a few extra days in case plans are delayed.
- Carry a recent photograph of the person with dementia.
- Consider bringing courtesy cards to inform hotel and restaurant staff, airline personnel, and others of your situation. A variety of different cards with messages such as, “Please be patient and compassionate, my companion has Alzheimer’s disease” are available at your local Alzheimer Society of B.C. resource centre.
Tips for airplane travel:
- Consider notifying the airline that the person you are travelling with has dementia. Most airlines will be able to offer additional assistance.
- It may be helpful to ask airline staff if you can board the plane first and leave last.
- Request seats close to the lavatory to avoid long walks along narrow aisles.
- Request a window seat for the person with dementia to limit over-stimulation from other passengers and crew.
- Bring activities for the person to engage in during a long
- flight (e.g. favourite magazine, deck of cards).
- Bring plenty of snacks and water for both the person with dementia and yourself.
When you reach your destination:
- Survey your hotel room for possible safety hazards.
- If you will be staying in a hotel and wandering is a concern, consider bringing a portable door alarm.
- Use a night-light to minimize confusion during nighttime bathroom trips.
- Choose familiar restaurants (such as franchises) when possible.
Travelling can trigger a variety of emotions for families living with dementia. In addition to happiness and excitement, there are often feelings of grief associated with the changes and losses that are experienced. By allowing plenty of time to plan ahead, and considering some adjustments to make things easier, both you and the person with dementia can have an enjoyable experience.
