If you’re considering taking your elderly parent to a favorite beach resort, or even abroad, make sure you plan ahead. For an occasion to be a success, you must host it in the right place. It is always advisable to consider what kind of weather you will encounter, then pack your stuff accordingly. Also, the type of crowd you may encounter must be kept in mind. Furthermore, be sure to arrange for medical care to be readily available, regardless of the vacation destination. Here’s a list of the ten most important elements you must keep in mind while traveling with seniors:
1. Timing is everything
Plan ahead and be mindful of how long you are going to be away. Two-week trips with an aging loved one might seem like the ideal scenario, but they may be too exhausting. The type of vacation you plan may depend on how active you want to be. Whether you plan to do a lot of walking or prefer more sedentary activities will have a deep impact on your overall planning.
2. Keep the medical team in loop
Consult the loved one’s doctor before traveling to ensure they are able to travel. If they plan to fly, is it safe? Does the place they are going to require vaccinations or immunizations? Should they take any medication? How would things be handled in the event of an unforeseen delay in returning home? Additional medication in the event of an unplanned delay is needed or not? All these matters need to be discussed with the doctors.
3. Plan each day in advance
When you’ve selected a destination, know the activities you will be engaging in and where you will be going. Incorporating some fun activities where they can participate will let them be just as happy as you are. When planning your trip, consider making sure to include some time for your companions to enjoy themselves.
4. Don’t over-plan
Never underestimate the importance of downtime. There is no need to plan each and every minute of the day. Take a break in between your fun activities. You can prevent exhaustion and injury when traveling with an older person by taking time to stretch or rest—this can help prevent fatigue and promote flexibility.
5. Conduct periodic health checks
Make sure you’re aware of any physical conditions your elderly loved ones have. If they’re taking an antihypertensive medicine, watch out for rising blood pressure. You should make sure to take time for them to continue their exercises and rehab while traveling if they have recently recovered from an injury or surgery.
6. Make time for self-care
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying some alone time. It’s important to allow yourself time to relax while taking care of your elders. Don’t feel guilty about wanting to take some time off. Let someone else in the group watch over them while you rest or do something you like.
7. Seek out available accommodations
Special requests are generally accommodated by airlines, hotels, and resorts when they are asked. A wheelchair may be required at the airport, or additional time may be needed to board the plane due to a disability. Try to get information about the location of your hotel room such as having a room that is closer to the dining area and the elevator. You can also request a room on the ground floor and breakfast establishments due to their steps. Make sure the property is handicap accessible as well.
8. Take breaks between activities
While you prepare for your day, your mom or dad may take a little extra time getting ready in the morning. That’s natural. There’s nothing to worry about. You can have those extra few minutes to yourself as well. You might want to consider pushing the breakfast to 9 am instead of 8:30 am, and taking a small break after that to finally begin with your fun activities.
9. Purchase traveler’s insurance
If you are traveling with someone who is older, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance. Unforeseen circumstances often prevent them from making this long-awaited trip. Therefore, it’s better to have travel insurance to avoid the unnecessary stress of losing the money you had spent on planning the trip.
10. Opt for vacation care
You may find it well worth your while to have someone look after your elderly parent during your trip. Enjoy your vacation to the fullest by taking advantage of Personal Care while you are on vacation. An aide can assist your parent with their everyday living activities, such as using a wheelchair, bathing, toileting, or whatever needs they may have.
