Traveling with an older loved one can be a trip in itself, however traveling with a loved one that has dementia can put a lot of stress on the family. Here are some helpful tips for traveling with a loved one who has dementia.
Tip #1: Bring Important Documents
Having all necessary documents on file is important. Check out this list of all the important documents you should bring along while traveling:
- Card with doctors name and contact information
- A list of current medications and dosages
- Copies of legal papers
- Emergency contacts
- Insurance information
- List of food or drug allergies
Keep these documents in a folder and make sure anyone else you’re traveling with is aware of the folder and it’s content. It’s a good way to keep them organized and in one convenient place.
Tip #2: Hope For the Best, Prepare For The Worst
The stage of dementia your loved one has will determine the difficulty of how they react to traveling. When trouble remembering people or confusion occurs, that’s when the situation may escalate. Your loved one they may become very upset, especially if they are unaware of where they are or who is with them.
Tip #3: Allow Extra Travel Time
You never know what may happen during your travels, which is why you should allow for ample travel time to get where you’re going safely. Traveling during the day is your best bet when it comes to traveling with a loved one who has dementia. Keep in mind that delays likely will occur, as will changes in the environment. These changes may provoke wandering.
Tip #4: Surround Your Loved One with Familiar Faces
Surrounding your loved one with familiar faces can help make the trip as smooth as possible. During certain stages of dementia, confusion and forgetfulness may occur so keeping friendly faces around can help in a big way.
StoryPoint is Here to Help with Memory Care Needs
StoryPoint Senior Living offers an array of living options, specifically memory care to help those with dementia. We have trained staff members for our memory care residents, creating a comfortable and smooth transition. Vacation all year with us at StoryPoint.
