Summer vacations are so exciting! Exploring new destinations, leaving the worries of our everyday world behind, checking items off our bucket lists. And helping a senior loved one enjoy such a thrill makes it all the better. You will find, however, some special considerations to take into account that might help pave the way to an excellent outing when traveling with elderly parents or other older adults:
- Schedule a pre-trip doctor visit. To be certain your senior loved one is physically ready 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 a must. You can use this opportunity to verify what medications he or she should take along, any food restrictions to adhere to, and any other concerns or tips to bear in mind.
- Keep your plans senior-friendly. Be sure to plan plenty of time for rest, and figure out the top points of interest that you’d like to make a priority to see, with a number of other backup choices that can be added in if your older loved one’s energy allows. It’s also beneficial to research available amenities offered to seniors – motorized scooter and wheelchair rentals, accessible entrances and walkways, preferential seating and also early admission times, etc.
- Plan for the unexpected. Save a directory of emergency contact numbers in your phone, and carry a printed list as well. It’s also helpful to determine the location of the nearest hospital to where you’ll be lodging, as well as other possibly required amenities such as bathrooms and spots to stop for meals, beverages, or additional supplies. Also be certain your family member has an identification card with your name and cellular phone number included, just in case he/she happens to become separated from you.
- Take it easy and enjoy yourself! It’s common to fall into a pattern of protection when traveling with elderly parents, and certainly we want to keep them safe; however it’s best not to let the pendulum swing past the boundary as to be restrictive or patronizing. Allow sufficient chances for your older family member to express himself and explore to his heart’s content with openings such as, “What would you like to discover next?” or “Let’s give this a try!”
Did you realize that Home Sweet Home In-Home Care, the top rated home care company in St. Joseph, MI, provides accompaniment services to assist with older loved ones’ needs while on a trip, enabling families to focus on simply experiencing quality time with each other and creating lasting memories? Contact us to learn more!