The holidays are a time for family and friends, but if you have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, travel can be difficult. Going to new places with strange noises and routines can lead to stress and confusion. Be patient when traveling with someone who has dementia so everyone can have a good time.
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 wavering on whether traveling is a good idea for your loved one with dementia, take a trial run first. Pay attention to signs of trouble, such as anxiety or confusion. Also, try to keep your loved one’s routine as consistent as possible while away. And finally, before leaving for your trip, be sure to review some tips specifically designed for traveling with someone who has dementia.
Be patient when traveling with someone who has dementia so everyone can have a good time.
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.
- It is critical to have copies of essential documents, such as ID cards and medical contacts. Your loved one with dementia should also carry an ID card that identifies their condition.
- 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 plan to fly, be sure to let the airline, hotel, and any other necessary organizations know of any special needs in advance. This way, they can take the proper precautions such as ensuring there is a non-slip bath surface at the hotel. If your loved one has a tendency to wander off, make sure to hide car keys or double lock 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 Flower Mound Keeps Residents Engaged During the Holidays
Holidays are an important time for residents of Avanti Senior Living at Flower Mound. 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.
