Although some adult children may question the wisdom of taking an elderly parent along on a vacation – particularly if the senior needs special medical care – there is still one very compelling reason to do it: Life is short. It may be one of your last opportunities to spend an extended time with Mom or Dad away from the daily grind and stresses of life.
Here are a few ways to make the excursion a memorable and enjoyable experience, even if your parent is currently receiving in-home health services. Fortunately nursing services can be arranged and travel plans may be tailored to the needs of a parent.
Although it will cost more for airfare, book a direct flight with as few travel connections as possible. Some travel agencies can arrange for the services of a geriatric care manager to oversee the travel arrangements. If you can afford to do so, consider bringing a nursing aid along with you.
If you will be travelling with both seniors and grandchildren, plan for a slow-paced itinerary. If it’s a wedding or milestone anniversary, either may prove a little more challenging as the number of travelers will add to the complexity. Start planning early.
As the departure date draws near ensure medications have not expired, are in the correct containers and information on refills are with you at all times. Also have any pertinent medical information with you including physician phone numbers and paper copies of health records.
In the U.S. there are many national parks and city parks offering visitors wheelchair access over paved trails. This brings the beauty of nature close to those who cannot safely navigate dirt trails. And theme parks such as Walt Disney World Resort offer daily wheelchair rentals.
If possible, consider travelling in the off-season to avoid navigating through a crush of tourists with a frail relative. For octogenarians a stumble may be fatal.
Be particularly cognizant of hygiene when traveling in certain regions where waterborne illnesses are more prevalent. A simple case of tummy troubles could turn into a life-threatening illness for an aged traveler.
It’s relatively common for locals in other regions of the world to refill used bottles with tap water and pawn those off on unsuspecting tourists. Serving your parent yogurt each day will help prevent tummy troubles. Delta Airlines’ blog, recommends a traveler should begin a daily serving of yogurt a week before the trip. The live bacteria can help aid digestion.
Seniors are also more vulnerable to heatstroke. If you notice any of signs of heat exhaustion, take immediate action. It’s a good idea to remind an elderly relative to keep sipping on a water bottle throughout the day.
Although such a momentous journey may seem somewhat formidable, do make the effort to cherish those fleeting years. Planning a three-generation journey in a parent’s twilight years will form cherished memories that will make the trip a very worthwhile one indeed.