Traveling with an Aging Parent: A Few Friendly Reminders
Throughout this week, we’ve given you several guides outlining the pros and cons of flying and driving, as well as other options for traveling with an aging parent.
So, in anticipation of your trip, we’re going to give you a few last-minute tips in order to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.
You can find our final tips for traveling with an aging parent below:
Plan ahead
Perhaps the most important tip we can give you is to plan ahead. Making all of the necessary arrangements before you hit the road or get on the plane will make things much easier on you and your aging parent in the long run. Here are a few things we suggest:
- Make an itinerary: First things first, where would you like to go? Having a schedule helps put your loved one at ease and allows them to visualize the trip rather than waiting around for you. It also makes them feel like they are a part of the decision making process, and not just a tag along.
- Call ahead for special needs: This is extremely important when it comes to flying, but will also be important when driving or taking a cruise. Make sure to let your airline know if you need assistance for checking in, security, and getting from one terminal to the next. If you need special seating arrangements on the plane, it’s best to let them know when you are purchasing the tickets.
- Lodging: Make sure to call the hotel and see if they do anything to accommodate seniors (e.g. elevator access, showers/tubs with senior accessibility, etc.).
- Check the weather: Figuring out what the weather will be like ahead of time will help to ensure that your loved one is appropriately dressed throughout the trip. This can also potentially lighten the load you’ll need to pack for the trip.
“Make a list and check it twice
Making a list is another great way to prepare for a trip. Not only will it keep you organized–it will also guarantee that you have everything you need, such as medicine, documents, and clothes.
Keep the essentials handy
Keep all essential items ready to go in a carry on bag when flying. If you are driving, you should still have these items within arms’ reach. Try to keep a small bag of your essentials in the front of the car instead of the trunk. And, if you are traveling in the summer, make sure to take your medications out of the car when you park, as the hot temperature can ruin your meds.
Here are some of the essentials we suggest having on hand:
- (Extra) medications, clearly labeled with name, dosage, and instructions for administering
- Medical records/documentation
- Identification such as a government issued photo I.D./Passport
- Cell phone with necessary phone numbers
- List of emergency contact info
This might seem like a lot of work, but preparing yourself will do wonders to help make the trip much more relaxing for both you and your loved one. If you have any questions about what you see above, or would like more advice, please give us a call. We’d love to help make your trip a success!
Physicians’ Choice Private Duty Assisted Living currently serving Omaha, Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa provides seniors and their families a complete understanding of geriatric care options and helps families maneuver through the challenges of the system. Get your free Cost Comparison guide by clicking here. Or contact us for a free consultation or just to say hello!
—
photo credit: Siroccosky via photopin cc
“Physicians’ Choice Private Duty Assisted Living solves the challenges families face in caring for aging parents, with a focus on strategies that keep them in their homes. To learn more about our solutions, visit http://www.private-duty.pchhc.com.”