Travel guidelines for those with dementia
Though you may be a little nervous about traveling with a person with dementia, many families have happy and fulfilling times during their travels. With a little pre-planning, traveling can be an enjoyable, safe, and comfortable experience for the person with dementia and their travel partners.
Plan your travel carefully.
People with dementia may find new environments confusing and may become anxious. They may also find it hard to readjust when they get home.
- When possible, travel to areas that were familiar to the person before they developed dementia.
- Pick destinations that make it easier to keep to their daily routines.
- Plan a simple, relaxing vacation. Don’t over schedule. Plan rest time so you and the person can recharge.
- Travel during the time of day that is most comfortable for the person; late afterno
ons can be difficult for a person with dementia. - Allow extra time for everything; almost everything takes longer when assisting a person with dementia.
- Stay flexible; things rarely go the way you planned
- Inform staff at the airport and hotels of your specific needs beforehand so they can be prepared to assist you.
- Pack necessary medications, current medical information, emergency contacts and important legal documents.
- Keep a pack with medications, water, snacks, extra clothing, familiar objects the person is comfortable with, etc. with you.
- A person with dementia may be tired or anxious when arriving at a new place. Relax, have a cup of coffee before unpacking.
What travel mode should you use?
Assess the person’s abilities and safety needs. What means of transportation will the person be the most comfortable with and least anxious? By car? For a long car ride, plan to stop at least every two hours. If the person becomes anxious, pull over for safety. Flying? Try for non-stop flights, avoid tight connections, ask for seating near the toilets, and let the flight attendant know that you may need assistance. Ask for a wheelchair; staff will assist you through the airport and may decrease some anxiety.
Be proactive.
Unfamiliar surroundings, loud noises and lots of people can cause anxiety and trigger wandering. Make sure the person has ID on them at all times and keep a current photo and description with you in case you need to search for them. Always try to be proactive and watch for signs of increased anxiety and help the person move to a quiet place if a stressful situation arises.
When visiting family, explain about dementia and changes in the person. Try to maintain the person’s routine as much as possible. Labeling important areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, etc. is also a helpful tool to make it easier for the person to find their way around.
Most importantly, ask for help. Be open about the person’s needs and how people can help. Trying to hide the challenges of traveling with a person with dementia can make life more stressful for all. After all, vacations are meant to be relaxing. With the right attitude and no set expectations, it can be a rewarding and memorable travel experience.
Discover more resources for those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia and their care partners.