RespiteMatch.com Health Blog

Traveling long distances with a person in the early stages of dementia may still be quite enjoyable. As dementia advances, however, traveling becomes unpredictable as the person becomes more confused. Preparing for a Trip Prepare for a trip by gathering important documents: insurance cards, passports, your physician’s phone number, refills on medications and a copy of medical records in case the person with dementia needs to see a physician while away. Make sure you keep track of all the documents and medications. Packing them in carry-on bags so they will not get lost en route is a good idea. Remember to bring sufficient funds or a credit card with you in case you must change your plans suddenly and return home. Also, you may want to bring along a brief letter from your physician to the airline or hotel to expedite a change in plans. Sticking to a Routine When traveling, try to follow the routine that is followed at home. And be sure to allow plenty of time for everything. Bathe and dress the person without rushing, have leisurely meals at restaurants at non-peak times and stay with favorite food choices. Plan for rest periods throughout the day. For example, if you’re taking a tour by bus, you may want to remain in the bus so the person can take a nap instead of visiting all the sites. Wandering and Anxiety The person who wanders when at home, may do so in an unfamiliar place. In the event that this happens, have the person wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace that clearly explains that she has a dementing illness. Put a card with the name and address of the hotel where you are staying in the person’s pocket. You may want to carry a recent photo of the person in case he/she gets lost. Traveling may also make the person more anxious. Bring along an anti-anxiety medicine “just in case.” C:\!work\NWRC\Caregiver Kit\tipsfortraveling.doc

Toileting and Bathroom Issues Toileting is an issue that requires some forethought when you are traveling. If you are driving, stop at the rest area toilets every couple of hours. If the person needs assistance in the bathroom and you may be in there for a while, bring along an “occupied’ sign for the washroom door. Have on hand a full change of clothing and a supply of disposable underwear. Bathrooms in unfamiliar places, such as hotel rooms, may pose problems, too. Be sure to keep the way to the toilet well-lighted, and turn on the night-light in the bathroom. A Few Extra Tips A few more travel tips to keep in mind: If you’re driving, never leave the person alone in the car. Try to bring along a relative or friend to share in the driving. And if you’re traveling by plane, you may want to notify the airline ahead of time, so it can provide any needed assistance. C:\!work\NWRC\Caregiver Kit\tipsfortraveling.doc