PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Whether traveling by car or by air, busy holiday weekends can bring anxiety, especially for those traveling with loved ones who suffer from dementia, including Alzheimer’s, the most common disease that causes dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Association says more than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. The illness, which causes memory loss, can make even the enjoyable things in life a challenge.
“Traveling is overwhelming,” said Christina Drumm-Boyd, owner and founder of Care Connect Hampton Roads. “I mean, there’s just heightened anxiety.”
As we approach a busy, travel-filled Memorial Day weekend, those who work closely with senior citizens and their families say their services are in high demand.
Organizations like the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America recommend TRIP tips.
T: Time travel properly
“You definitely want to allow extra time and the ability to stop, physically get out of the car and even remind them while sitting in the car to move your feet,” Drumm-Boyd said.
R: Reduce stress, anxiety by becoming familiar with where you are going
“The access to medical care, too, for the location that you’re traveling to, where’s the emergency room if they need to be transported or if you need urgent care, traveling even with a small first aid kit,” Drumm-Boyd said.
I: Include breaks and allow for downtime while on your trip
“Any change in their schedules, particularly if they have some form of dementia, can be really upsetting to them,” Drumm-Boyd said.
P: Plan for contingencies
“We want to make sure that you have medication on hand, enough on hand,” Drumm-Boyd said. “Don’t put them in a checked-in bag. Make sure that you keep them on your person and with you, and that you have extra in the event for some reason that you are delayed.”
She also adds to always opt for early screening processes if traveling by air and keep all important documents nearby at all times.
“Traveling can be a wonderful thing as long as they are physically fit to do it and you’ve planned ahead to make sure you cover all your bases,” she said.
For much more insight on tips to keep in mind when traveling with a loved one living with Alzheimer’s, click here.