  |
|
|
|
When planning a trip, whether it is a 4-hour trip to another city or a 2-day trip to another state, it's important to be organized. Below, you will find some tips when traveling with your loved one that may be helpful.
1. Tell your loved one where you are going and when you are leaving. This will allow your loved one to ask you questions and it is also a good time for you to calm their fears. They may be worried that you are taking them somewhere to live or that you are moving permanently. Assure your loved one that the family is visiting another city or state and that you will be coming back. Let them know what you have planned and be sure to point out all the fun activities, such as sight seeing or shopping. 2. Your loved one should use the restroom right before you leave for the trip. If your loved one experiences incontinence, be sure you have plenty of sanitary garments on hand. Each time you stop, whether for a drink, food, or gas, encourage your loved one to use the restroom. This will make it easier on you and your loved one. 3. If possible, have your loved one sit in the back seat. This is a safety precaution as your loved one may have the urge to fidget and reach over to the steering wheel. 4. Always make sure that your loved one is wearing a seat belt. And, make sure that they cannot open the windows or doors. Some cars have child safety features where the driver can "lock" the doors and windows. If your loved one tends to unlock doors or roll down windows, try to have them sit in the middle seat as long as there is a seat belt. You may have to experiment to see what works best for you and for your loved one. 5. Your loved one may tire easily, so if you notice that your loved one is getting quite agitated after driving for 8 hours, you may wish to call it a night or even pull over at a rest stop for a drink. However, some loved ones may fall asleep in the car. 6. While in the car, play your loved one's favorite type of music. This may calm his/her nerves if he/she is frightened of car rides. You can also bring along photo albums or picture books for your loved one to flip through. This can be especially fun if you have children traveling with you. Your child can read to your loved one. Go To Page: 1 2
The copyright of the article Alzheimer's and Traveling in Elderly Caregiving is owned by Marci Stocks. Permission to republish Alzheimer's and Traveling in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|
|
|
