Alzheimer's Care Travel Tips for Families in Dougasville

If you are thinking of making vacation plans with a family member that has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you may be questioning if it’s a good idea. At Visiting Angels^® Douglasville, our experience with Alzheimer’s care has made us a trusted resource for seniors and their families in Lithia Springs, Smyrna, Mableton, Hiram and surrounding areas. Although every stage of Alzheimer’s brings on new challenges, with preparation and planning, most seniors with Alzheimer’s are still able to travel with assistance.

Alzheimer’s Care Travel Tips

Whether it’s a family vacation to visit relatives, or a trip that cannot be avoided, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s while traveling takes planning and patience. Use these tips from Visiting Angels Douglasville to make your next trip safe and comfortable for your loved one who requires Alzheimer’s care.

1. Keep travel time limited - Whenever possible, keep each leg of travel under four hours to give you and your loved one time to rest.

2. Avoid flight connections and layovers - Choose direct flights whenever possible to avoid the stress and panic often associated with trying to make a flight connection.This also limits the amount of time in airports that can be noisy and disorienting for someone with Alzheimer’s.

3. Allow time for your loved one to adjust to new surroundings - Travel involves new places and faces, which can be difficult for those with Alzheimer's. Build extra time into your schedule so they can acclimate without feeling rushed.

4. Call hotels and other reservations ahead of time - Let hotels, restaurants, and other places you may be visiting know of any special needs before arriving so they can better prepare.

5. Pack a “go bag” for your trip - This bag should contain snacks and bottled water, copies of emergency information and flight schedules, important medication, and items to help your loved one feel comfortable, such as photos, magazines, a book, or favorite toy.

6. Make sure your loved one is wearing ID at all times - Whether it’s a specially made bracelet or their name and your phone number attached to their clothing, and check often to be sure it has not fallen off.  

7. Have realistic expectations - If your loved one is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s, travel may be very difficult, even with the best planning. In these situations, travel locally if possible. If longer travel is necessary, consider hiring a medical transport service that can provide air or ground transportation.

Compassionate Alzheimer’s Care For Seniors in Douglasville

If your senior parent has Alzheimer’s and prefers to remain living independently, you may be filled with concerns about their safety, especially when you are unable to be there due to work or travel. At Visiting Angels Douglasville, we understand your concerns, and are here to help with a wide range of Alzheimer’s care services, including:

• At-home care that provides seniors with Alzheimer's the assistance needed to live independently

• Friendly companionship and a listening ear

• Transportation and accompaniment to appointments, shopping, errands, and activities

• Respite care that gives family members the break they need to continue caring for their loved one

• 24 hour and full-time care for your loved one while you travel for work or family vacations

When Alzheimer’s care is needed, Visiting Angels Douglasville will be there for you and your loved one. We are available on a 24 hour, full-time, part-time, or hourly basis every day of the year, including holidays and weekends. Our Alzheimer’s care plans are customized to your loved one’s individual needs in Douglasville, and can be adjusted as needs change for their comfort and safety.

Ready to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care services available to seniors and their families in Douglasville, Lithia Springs, Smyrna, Mableton, Hiram and the surrounding areas? Call Visiting Angels Douglasville today to schedule a no obligation consultation in the comfort of your own home.