Alzheimer's Care: Travel Tips for Seniors in Tyler

When a loved one has Alzheimer’s, it can affect every aspect of their lives, including their ability to travel. And while many families would like to continue traveling with their loved ones, they worry about their safety and comfort in unfamiliar settings. At Visiting Angels^® Tyler, we are a trusted provider of Alzheimer's care for seniors and their families in Mineola, Jacksonville, Lindale, Whitehouse, Bullard, Longview, and the surrounding communities. We understand that many families are new to Alzheimer’s care, and the idea of traveling away from your loved one's Tyler home may seem overwhelming. But it is possible, with patience and some planning.

Alzheimer’s Care Travel Tips From Visiting Angels Tyler

From day trips in the Tyler area to extended flights and long car rides, planning ahead makes all the difference, especially when traveling with a loved one who requires Alzheimer’s care. Here are 8 ways family caregivers can lessen the stress of traveling with someone who has Alzheimer’s:

1. Pick the best time to travel - This will be the time of day that is best for your loved one’s schedule and mood.

2. Allow extra time - Your loved one may need more time to acclimate to new surroundings than the rest of your group. “Cushion” your schedule with extra time to avoid rushing your loved one.

3. Be sure your loved one has identification at all times - It can be a necklace or bracelet with their name and contact info, or it can be as simple as something attached to their clothing, or written on their hand, but check often to be sure it is still there, especially for seniors who wander.

4. Let others help you - Call your hotel ahead of time, explain you are traveling with a person who has Alzheimer’s, and let them know of special accommodations that would make your stay easier so they can be prepared and help when you arrive.

5. Keep travel times short - Limit travel times to under four hours at a time to allow your loved one (and yourself) time to rest.

6. Book direct flights when possible - To avoid the stress and hassles associated with stopovers and connecting flights, choose direct flights whenever they are available.

7. Be realistic - If your loved one is in the late stages of Alzheimer’s, it may not be the best time to plan an extended trip. Stay closer to home if possible, and when long distance travel is necessary, look into hiring a medical transport service for ground or air transportation.

8. Be prepared to explain - Many family caregivers worry about going places with a loved one that makes unexpected outbursts in public, or demonstrates odd behavior. Thinking about how you might handle the situation ahead of time can ease your stress. Some caregivers find it helpful to print and hand out small cards simply stating that this individual has Alzheimer’s, please forgive the outburst or interruption. This helps preserve your loved one’s dignity, and can make the situation more bearable for the caregiver.

When You Need Alzheimer's Care Services in Tyler

Whether your loved one is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s or has been recently diagnosed, Visiting Angels Tyler is here for you and your loved one. We offer a wide range of Alzheimer’s care services to seniors in Tyler and their families, including:

• Respite care for family caregivers

• In-home Alzheimer’s care for seniors who wish to age in place

• 24 hour and full-time care for seniors with Alzheimer’s while you travel

• Companionship and conversation

• Transportation to appointments, shopping, and errands

All our services are customized to the individual needs of our clients, and can be adjusted to accommodate the changing needs of those with Alzheimer’s. Our professional caregivers are available for your loved one on a full-time, part-time, or hourly basis every day of the year, including holidays and weekends. And if an unexpected need arises, our clients and their families can call our off-hours line for a return call within 15 minutes or less.

Interested in finding out more about our Alzheimer’s care services available to seniors and their families in Tyler, Mineola, Jacksonville, Lindale, Whitehouse, Bullard, Longview, and the surrounding communities? Call Visiting Angels Tyler today to schedule a no cost consultation in the comfort of your own home.