Traveling with elderly individuals can be as challenging as traveling with small children. Pre-planning the trip, anticipating what they may need, can assist in a more successful and less stressful event. Here are a few tips.
Booking
Investigate all possible modes of travel to your destination to determine which may fit best with your situation. Some individuals do well with shorter flights with more stops; others do better with a direct flight. Allow enough time between connections—a minimum of 90 minutes—so that the person is not rushed. Remember that only double-aisle airplanes have accessible lavatories if traveling with a wheelchair bound individual. Take advantage of the airlines' pre-boarding procedures for persons with special needs. Engage the hotel reservations clerk in requesting any specific needs during your stay, such as a first floor room or an adjoining room. If renting a vehicle, consider the type of vehicle that would best accommodate the person.
Health
What is the health of the senior that you are traveling with? What is their activity level? It is a good idea to have an up-to-date medical clearance from their healthcare provider as well as a sufficient amount of all prescription medications. It is also advantageous to have a list of their medical conditions along with all of their medications, prescription and over-the-counter. Medication should be in their original containers, not in a Sunday through Saturday pill minder tray. Any allergies should also be included in the documentation and it is best to have a Medic-Alert bracelet if communication may be an issue, as in an Alzheimer's patient. The provider's name and phone number should also be included in the documentation.
Food
Meals tend to be different when traveling. Plan to have something to eat before traveling, preferably something light, and carry water to prevent dehydration. Of course, the water will need to be obtained after the security check-point; otherwise, it will be confiscated.
Limitations
Does the person have difficulty walking, talking, hearing, or have an external, or internal implanted appliance or device? There may be interference with the airport security or with metal detectors. Having the appropriate documentation for the device may be helpful in some situations. Alerting the TSA to such devices during the security checks will be beneficial. Durable medical equipment such as canes, crutches, and walkers are allowed on board an airplane. Individual wheelchairs may be checked at the gate. Obtain wheelchair assistance in advance with airline personnel. Consider reserving an aisle seat for the individual if flying.
Pace
Consider a slower pace for the trip. An outing with a full day of activities is stressful for all, more so for an elderly person. Allow for nap time to recharge their energy. Consider a day of activity, then a day of rest. Allow plenty of time for check in at the airport or other mode of transportation. Individuals who have sensory limitations, such as hearing or visual impairment, may feel insecure in new and unfamiliar situations. Keep in mind that they may need frequent reassurance that someone will be available for them to feel safe.
Traveling with an elderly person can be less stressful and more successful if their limitations are taken into account during the planning stages of the trip.
Rosemary King - Stay well; stay healthy; stay focused.
