How to Make Holiday Travel Less Stressful for Your Elderly Loved One
With home care assistance, you can take the stress of out of holiday travel for your senior loved one
For most of us on the California Central Coast, the holiday season means one thing: traveling. And while for most of us who may be accustomed to the fast pace of today’s travel environment, for our seniors it can often prove to be very demanding. A part of why traveling during the holiday season can be so stressful on our seniors is due to the fact of how much busier this time of year is for airlines, train stations, and so on. Shifting plans and unforeseen changes in travel plans can prove to be very punishing on our seniors and can make providing the right home care assistance that much more difficult.
The image of holiday traveling, and traveling altogether, can seem greatly intimidating to seniors who suffer from conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. When set plans and routines are changed so abruptly this can cause heavy anxiety and stress to those seniors. And for caregivers who give home care assistance to these seniors, we often can see how this very same stresses can be transmitted onto them. Luckily, there are sufficient ways to alleviate these holiday travel stresses this year.
Most importantly, you have to plan ahead. It is crucial to have a working plan that you share with your senior prior to your travels as to help reduce the anxiety that comes with hectic travel situations. Having a drafted plan that is shared will also help your senior feel more involved and aid in providing the best home care assistance once you arrive to your destination. Furthermore, you want to make sure you are organized. Taking the appropriate time to gather any important documents and medication will make your traveling with your senior that much more worry-free. Not only that, but should any emergency situation arise, you’ll know that your senior will be given the best possible care by keeping all parties conscious of any special needs your senior has.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help while traveling, such as special accommodations while boarding an airplane, greatly helps in reducing the taxing stress that can befall a senior. Most airlines will allow early boarding and special assistance with wheelchairs and walkers for those seniors that require it. Also, hotels and most restaurants will provide similar accommodations and assistance with things such as special dietary restrictions. Finally, it is of utmost importance to take your time while traveling with your senior. Rushing and hurrying can vastly increase your senior’s discomfort levels and lead to general unpleasant traveling. Allowing for extra time in every step of your travels will aid in providing the best care and support once your travels are over.
Take these tips into account this holiday season and help your senior enjoy their travels and time with loved ones that much more.
To learn more about home care assistance options for seniors in Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Marina and surrounding areas in California, contact Visiting Angels Central Coast today!