The holiday season is here, which for many people means traveling to see family and friends. However, if you or a loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, travel can be more difficult. Stress and confusion may result from sudden changes in surroundings, increased noise levels, and unfamiliar routines. Keep this in mind when traveling with someone who has dementia. Remaining patient will make the experience much better for everyone involved.
Alzheimer’s disease affects people differently, and to varying degrees. The general rule of thumb though is that the earlier you identify it and get a diagnosis, the better. There are three stages to Alzheimer’s: early, middle, and late. In the early stage, your loved one might experience some mild changes in memory recall or have more trouble than usual with words – this can make travel rather daunting but luckily help is at hand.
If you’re unsure about whether or not traveling is a good idea for your loved one with dementia, take a trial run first and see how it goes. Pay attention to any signs of trouble, such as anxiety or confusion. Additionally, try to keep your loved one’s routine as stable as possible while on the trip. And finally, before leaving for your journey, be sure to review some tips specifically designed for traveling with someone who has dementia.
Stress and confusion may result from sudden changes in surroundings, increased noise levels, and unfamiliar routines.
Here are the top 5 tips to consider:
- Keep track of your loved one’s medication dosage and frequency, as you will be responsible for administering their medications.
- Make sure to have copies of essential documents, such as ID cards and medical contacts. Not only should you have their ID information, but your loved one should also carry an ID that indicates they have dementia.
- Never leave your loved one alone in an unfamiliar place; they might become frightened and lost. Offer reassurance that you will stay with them to keep them safe.
- If you’ll be traveling by air, inform the airlines, hotel, and any other agency of any special needs you may have, including non-slip bath surfaces at the hotel. If your loved one is known to wander off, be sure to take precautions by hiding car keys or double-locking the doors.
- By leaving some flexibility in your schedule, you won’t feel rushed and things will be overall less difficult. Make sure to give yourself time to travel and take plenty of breaks so that you can enjoy the experience.
How Avanti Senior Living at Covington Keeps Residents Engaged During the Holidays
Holidays are an important time for residents of Avanti Senior Living at Covington. The physical and mental health benefits from social activities, events, and celebrations are especially beneficial for those living with dementia. At Avanti, we understand that the holidays can be a stressful time for those with dementia and their families. We work hard to create a positive and engaging environment for our residents during the holidays. Our dedicated staff is trained in dementia care and understands the importance of providing compassionate, thoughtful support to those living with dementia. We also strive to provide stimulating activities throughout the year that keep our residents engaged in their community.
