July 12, 2017
Everyone looks forward to summer vacations! Checking items off of our bucket lists, leaving the worries of the everyday world behind, exploring new destinations. And helping older loved ones enjoy the experiences with you on the vacation makes it all the better. There are, however, certain factors to keep in mind that can make traveling with seniors much better and pave the way to a rewarding vacation for everyone:
- Plan a pre-trip physician visit. To make certain your older family member is physically able to comfortably cope with the rigors of a long car ride or airline flight, and all your intended destination has to offer, a check-up with the senior’s doctor is important. Use this opportunity to establish what prescription drugs he or she should take along, any kind of food restrictions to adhere to, and any other concerns or suggestions to consider.
- Keep your travel plan senior-friendly. You’ll want to plan plenty of time for rest, and figure out the top points of interest that you would like to make a priority to see, with a number of other backup choices that may be included if your older loved one’s energy permits. It’s also useful to research available amenities offered to seniors – motorized scooter and wheelchair rentals, accessible entryways and pathways, preferential seating and also early admission times, etc.
- Plan for the unexpected. Keep a directory of emergency contact phone numbers in your cell phone, and carry a printed list also. It’s also helpful to identify the location of the closest hospital to where you’ll be staying, together with other potentially required amenities such as restrooms and spots to stop for meals, drinks, or various other supplies. Also be certain your family member has an identification card with your name and mobile phone number included, in the event that he/she happens to become separated from you.
- Relax and enjoy yourself! It’s common to fall into a pattern of protection with our aging loved ones, and certainly we would like to keep them safe; however be careful not to let the pendulum swing past an acceptable limit as to become restrictive or patronizing. Allow plenty of opportunities for your older loved one to express himself and investigate to his heart’s content with openings such as, “What would you like to look at next?” or “Let’s give this a try!”
Did you realize Continuum provides accompaniment services to help with older loved ones’ needs while on a trip, making it possible for family members to focus on simply experiencing quality time together and creating lasting memories? Contact us online or calls us at (314) 863-9912 to learn more about how our Clayton area caregivers can help!