If you’re wondering how to fly or road trip with an elderly parent, you’re not alone. Traveling with an elderly family member can be challenging, but you can do it easier with a bit of forethought. Here are a few tips for traveling with elderly parents:
Speak to Their Doctor
Ask your parent’s doctor about their traveling recommendations, especially if your parent takes medication for a mental or health condition. In some cases, your doctor may advise postponing travel. Your doctor may also have specific travel recommendations based on your loved one’s physical and mental health needs.
Adjust for Your Parent’s Abilities
Traveling is physically and mentally challenging for most people, especially those traveling with dementia. When creating your travel plans, make sure to keep the physical and mental abilities of those traveling with your mind. This might include:
- Mobility: If your parent is not mobile, you will need to arrange access to a wheelchair or take one with you. If you are traveling by car, you’ll need to have the wheelchair on hand, but if you are flying, you may need to contact your airline about their policies. For some, a travel walker might be a better option.
- Mental Capacity: If your parent has dementia, you’ll need to be especially vigilant to avoid losing them in the crowd. If you are flying or riding a train or bus, you might want to inform the local crew of their condition.
- Timing: On average, elders move more slowly and can take a longer time to complete tasks compared to their counterparts. Plan and add extra time as needed. Plan for places to rest, too.
- Accommodations: Keep in mind that your parent may need specific travel accommodations. This might be extra bathroom breaks or a walker to help ensure safe movement.
- Medications: Many seniors take essential medicines for mental and physical conditions. Before traveling, ensure that your parent has enough medication to last throughout the trip. Keep a list of the medications with you, too, if they get lost.
Products to Consider
Here are a few products to consider when traveling with an elderly parent:
- First Aid Kit: Having a first aid kit on hand when you travel is always a good idea, especially if you have an elderly parent who is at risk for falls and other injuries.
- Travel Walker: Whether you’re driving or flying, having a lightweight walker on hand is helpful if your parent has mobility issues or simply gets tired quickly. Some walkers have seats that allow you to stop and rest anytime.
- Travel Wheelchair: If walking is difficult, consider a lightweight travel wheelchair.
- Compression Socks: Compression garments can ease pain, improve circulation, and reduce swelling. If you are flying, compression socks can help reduce ankle and calf swelling. Your doctor may recommend additional compression garments.
- Travel Pillow: Having a travel pillow for head and neck support will make traveling more comfortable for your parent.
If you are planning a trip with an elderly parent and looking for medical supplies for travel, shop Simply Medical today!