INDIANA – Holiday travel can be hectic for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for the 110,000 Hoosiers living with Alzheimer’s and their 216,000 caregivers.
While not all individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia are able to travel, people living with early- and mid-stage dementia often do want to attend family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Careful and thoughtful planning can help ensure safety, comfort, and enjoyment for everyone involved.
When planning your holiday travel, consider these tips from the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana
Chapter:
- Evaluate the best mode of travel: Based on needs, abilities, safety, and preferences, decide what would provide the most comfort and the least anxiety.
- Pick a practical destination: Consider everyone’s needs and desires as you plan your trip and discuss the plan with the person living with dementia. Elaborate sightseeing trips or complicated tours may cause anxiety and confusion. And it is always important to consider destinations that have easy access to emergency health services and pharmacies.
- Simplify your travel itinerary: Try not to overload the person with a lot of directions or too much information. Carry with you an itinerary that includes details about each destination. Give copies to family members or friends you will be visiting or to emergency contacts at home. Travel during the time of day that is best for the person. For example, if he or she becomes tired or more agitated in the late afternoon, avoid traveling at this time. Allow plenty of time for rest and don’t over-schedule.
- Keep travel necessities close: If traveling by air, keep necessary medications, up-to-date medical information, a list of emergency contacts, and photocopies of important documents in your carry-on baggage. For longer car trips, make sure water and snacks are available.
- Brief your host: If you are staying with family or friends, make sure everyone knows what to expect. If you will be staying in a hotel, consider informing the staff ahead of time of your specific needs so they can be prepared to assist you.
- Be prepared: Environmental changes or new locations can cause anxiety and agitation in people with Alzheimer’s. These events can also trigger wandering. Monitor your loved one closely for signs of stress or confusion. Keep them close to you in crowded, unfamiliar places.
More travel tips can be found by visiting alz.org/travel. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline also
provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance. Call the helpline toll-free
anytime, even on holidays, at 800-272-3900.
