Alzheimer's Care: Travel Tips from Visiting Angels Appleton WI
Caring for a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease can be a challenging process. That’s why many families turn to a professional Alzheimer’s care provider such as Visiting Angels® Appleton WI. If you are considering taking a trip with a loved one who currently receives or is in need of Alzheimer’s care, there are many logistical issues to consider as you plan your travels.
Our Alzheimer's Care Tips for Safer Travels
Before committing to your travel plans, it’s important to assess the situation of your loved one and think about how travel may affect him or her. Some elderly adults in the first stages of dementia can benefit from a trip with close family; however, others find that being outside their comfort zone and away from their Alzheimer's care provider in Appleton is too stressful. If you’re sure that your loved one will enjoy travel, or traveling with him or her is a necessity, consider the following travel tips from Visiting Angels Appleton WI as you plan your itinerary:
- Choose comfortable, low-stress options when possible. Keeping your loved one comfortable and minimizing their stress includes building your travel itinerary around their normal routine. It also means selecting the most comfortable options for transportation and accommodation, as well as avoiding tight connections or other potentially stressful situations.
- Carry your loved one’s Alzheimer's care documents with you. Before departing Appleton, gather up and make copies of documents relevant to your loved one’s Alzheimer's care. These may include health insurance information, phone numbers of physicians, legal paperwork, and a medical history and list of his or her medications. Keep a copy of these papers in each of your bags in case one of them gets lost.
- Be extra vigilant about wandering. Taking your loved one out of their home environment and away from their Alzheimer's care in Appleton may trigger wandering tendencies. Make a point of sticking by his or her side at all times. In addition, enrolling in MedicAlert® + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return® can also provide you with additional help in an emergency situation.
- Ask for help. Contact your airline and hotel ahead of time to let them know that you may require assistance upon arrival. Some airlines offer escort services or pre-boarding, which can make your travels go more smoothly.
Could Alzheimer’s care services help your loved one in Appleton live a safer, more comfortable life? Call Visiting Angels Appleton WI today to learn more about getting started with our Alzheimer’s care program.