With the holidays approaching soon, you might be thinking about traveling with your aging parent. However, many in their golden years find it stressful or difficult to travel for a number of reasons. Thankfully, there are many ways to make traveling much easier and enjoyable for mature adults. Here are some practical tips for traveling with your loved one.
Airplane Tips
If you are flying an airplane with your loved one, attempt to arrange a flight that takes you straight to your destination. This is because long layovers or dashes through a congested airport to catch a connecting flight are exhausting for everyone, especially your loved one who is a mature adult who might suffer from restricted mobility.
At the same time, take note that it is possible that your loved one will have to wait longer to board, so inquire about your airline’s boarding regulations for people with impairments. Another tip is to make use of airport assistance; even if your loved one can walk unaided usually. This means to request for a wheelchair to help relieve weariness and make the airport trip less unpleasant.
Car Tips
What if you are planning to travel with your loved one by car (and not airplane)? Not to worry, there are many other car tips to make the trip more enjoyable for everyone. One of which is that you need to make frequent stops on the car journey. In addition, you and your loved one should stretch frequently, and take a break from time to time. You can also make a list of sites of interest together with your loved one before your journey. And, if feasible, include them in your stop-and-stretch itinerary. Ensure that assistance aids such as canes and walkers, as well as any necessary prescriptions, are readily available. While it may feel odd at first, remember to remind your loved one to use the toilet at your stops.
Talk to Your Loved One’s Doctor
Before going on a trip, you should also talk to your loved one’s doctor. Ascertain that the doctor believes your loved one can cope with the stress of travel and the change in routine. Check with them if there is anything you and your loved one should take note of. To make it easier to identify your prescriptions, make sure they’re all renewed and in their original bottles. Get a list of medications from your doctor, as well as instructions on how to take them. If you’re flying, make sure your medications are in a carry-on bag to avoid missing doses if your checked luggage is delayed or misplaced.
Select the Right Hotel
To make the trip enjoyable, you need to also select the right hotel with the right floor plan and amenities. This is because some hotels may contain design aspects that are not suited for your loved one. The hotel should also be easy to find and access, and have suitable amenities like ramps, elevators, wheelchair access, and grab bars in the restrooms.
