Senior Care News

Caregivers in Memorial, TX: Tips for Traveling

Putting in a little preparation ahead of time can make all the difference in how much you and your loved one can enjoy a trip. Whether it’s your last chance at a short vacation before the weather turns to winter, or a trip to a niece’s wedding, it’s always fun to get away.

Things to arrange ahead of time

  1. Caregivers in Memorial, TXMake sure your loved one’s caregiver can go travelling with them, or possibly speak with the agency and see if there is another caregiver available for the trip.
  2. Consult with the elderly senior’s doctor and get approval for travel and any recommendations according to conditions the person might have and how travel will possibly affect those conditions.
  3. The chosen destination should be appropriate to any limitations your parent has. For example, someone in a wheelchair would need wheelchair accommodations both on the trip there and at the final destination.
  4. Any special services your loved one may need. Do they need special seating near a restroom? Should airline personnel be notified of physical limitations? Is there a designated disabled row where they can receive extra attention if needed?
  5. Research the medical facilities at your destination. Where are the nearest hospitals?
  6. If there will be a stay in a hotel, are there bars in the bathroom for the elderly?
  7. Get all documentation and identification ready. That could include a passport, tickets for the trip if needed (plane, train, bus, etc.) and itineraries. Medical documents are also important, prescriptions, medications and a physician’s statement if needed. For the elderly with dementia, wearable identification is crucial.
  8. Pack essentials in a bag that easy to access.
  9. Even though travelling can really upset a person’s routine and schedule, try to stick to as much of a daily routine as possible to reduce stress and anxiety in an elderly loved one.
  10. Plan for breaks and rests along the trip. There’s nothing worse than a hurried, stressful trip due to not planning in enough rest time. Elderly people can really get anxious when taken away from familiar surroundings and off of their regular routine. Even though there is a great deal of sitting while travelling, they can still get fatigued by the trip.

The trip is all about creating memories. No matter the purpose of the trip, try to take it slow and smell the roses along the way. The happy memory will be worth it.

If you have a loved one who could benefit from the help of home care services in Memorial, TX contact the caregivers at At Your Side Home Care. We help seniors and their families with many levels of home care service. Call (832) 271-1600 for more information.

Donna Wrabel, LMSW

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