The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA, alzfdn.org) offers nine tips for traveling with family members impacted by dementia. These tips apply whether you are traveling near or far.
Robin
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https://alzfdn.org/nine-
Nine Thanksgiving Travel Tips for Families Impacted by Dementia
AFA offers the following tips for family caregivers to consider:
- Advise airlines and hotels that you’re traveling with someone who has memory impairment and inform them of safety concerns and special needs.
- Inquire in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures. This way, you can familiarize the person beforehand about what will happen at the checkpoint to reduce potential anxiety.
- Plan the travel mode and timing of your trip in a manner that causes the least amount of anxiety and stress. Account for the person and their needs when making arrangements; if they travel better at a specific time of day, consider planning accordingly.
- Preserve the person’s routine as best as possible, including eating and sleeping schedules. Small or unfamiliar changes can be overwhelming and stressful to someone with dementia.
- Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, or rest.
- Bring snacks, water, activities and other comfort items (i.e., a blanket or the person’s favorite sweater), as well as an extra, comfortable change of clothing to adapt to climate changes.
- Consider utilizing an identification bracelet and clothing tags with your loved one’s full name and yours to ensure safety.
- Take important health and legal-related documentation, a list of current medications, and physician information with you.
- Depending on the trip duration and/or the stage of the person’s illness, consult with their physician to make sure travel is advisable.