Dementia advice for holiday travel
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers tips to help those traveling with a loved one with a dementia-related illness to make their trip as easy and comfortable as possible.
Before the trip: Make sure travel is advisable. Someone in the early stages of dementia may still enjoy traveling, but as the disease progresses, travel may become too difficult.
Plan according to the person’s abilities. Plan the travel mode and timing of your trip in ways that minimize anxiety and stress.
Preserve the person’s routine. Small or unfamiliar changes can be overwhelming and stressful to someone with dementia.
Stock up before leaving. Bring snacks, water, activities and supportive items (i.e., a blanket, the person’s favorite sweater, a soft pillow).
If traveling by mass transit, know the security procedures. Check in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures and inform them of safety concerns and special needs.
If traveling by car, build in break time. Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, and rest.
Families with questions about traveling with someone who has a dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), or webchat (www.alzfdn.org). The helpline is available seven days a week.
