Tips for Traveling with Alzheimer's

Summer is traditionally a popular time for travel. All travel requires planning, but when embarking with a senior with Alzheimer’s, a bit of extra preparation can aid in a safe and more enjoyable vacation. Consider these tips before taking off on your next adventure.

1. Carry important documents and medications with you. Always carry emergency contact information, physician information, a list of current medications and dosages and any information regarding food allergies. Also, have your travel itinerary and insurance information readily available. Take a current photo of the individual with Alzheimer’s to keep in your wallet.
2. Ensure your loved one is wearing an identification bracelet. If he/she does not have an ID bracelet, put his/her name on all clothing. Also, be sure they have your phone number and a list of medical conditions in his/her wallet at all times. Friends and loved ones should also carry a copy of the list of medical conditions in their wallet.
3. Keep surroundings as familiar as possible. People with Alzheimer’s often have difficulty in new environments. When traveling, bring familiar items from home like blankets, pillows and pajamas. Try to keep the same daily routine to avoid confusion.
4. Take a direct flight. Try to limit connections or layovers to avoid a missed flight and further distress. To give your loved one more time to adjust to the surroundings, ask the airline if you can pre-board.
5. Keep travel time to less than four hours. If your flight or drive is longer than four hours, bring photos and activities to keep your loved one busy during travel. Discuss the trip with a physician to understand precautions to take if behavior becomes extreme during the flight or drive. The physician may prescribe a medication to keep on-hand.
6. A hotel room is a haven. A hotel room can be a calm place to go when the trip becomes hectic. Make sure the hotel staff is aware of any special needs in advance. Consider bringing night lights for the hotel room or keep a light on to avoid any confusion in the dark. Bring bells to place on the door so you will be awakened if he/she opens the door to wander.
7. Set realistic expectations. It is often easier to travel with someone in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s. If your loved one exhibits delusional, paranoid, or disinhibited behavior, physical or verbal aggression, has a high risk of falling or has unstable medical conditions it may be wise seek summer fun locally.

MediNurse, St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing care, provides care services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call us at 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.