5 Tips To Reduce Stress When Traveling With Seniors

By Jamie Shapiro | November 11, 2016 | Comments Off on 5 Tips To Reduce Stress When Traveling With Seniors

Senior Care in Northbrook IL

Fall has officially arrived, which means that it is time to start planning for upcoming holiday travels. As fun and exciting as it is to spend time with loved ones and relatives during the holidays, the Senior-Care-in-Northbrook-ILideal of traveling can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when traveling with elderly family members. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to minimize the stress of traveling during the holidays.

Plan Ahead

One of the most important parts of stress-free traveling is to have a plan. When traveling with elderly family members it is important to have a game plan before you hit the road. Make sure to share your plans with your elderly family member, it will help them feel included in the plan as well as prepare them for the trip itself.

Get Organized

At least two weeks before the trip, take the time to organize all medications that your elderly loved one will need for the trip. For example, check to make sure there are refills available on prescriptions and that you will have enough supply to last the entire trip as well as a few additional days. Make copies of medical records, medication doses and medication schedules. These will help you provide important information to medical personnel should an emergency arise while you are away from home. It is also recommended that you check with your loved one’s doctor to discuss any travel concerns they may have. If you are flying and your loved one needs supplemental oxygen, remember to check with the airline ahead of time about their oxygen policy.

Do Not Rush

Rushed travel may cause your elderly family members discomfort levels to rise, so always plan extra time. When traveling by car, be sure to stop every hour or two so your loved one can stretch their legs. When possible, plan travel time during the hours when traffic will be less congested.

Ask For Help

In some situations, arrangements can be made for your elderly loved one’s home care provider to travel with you. Do not hesitate to ask for help with wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility equipment. Many businesses, including airlines, offer personalized assistance for handicapped seniors, so remember to ask about these services ahead of time.

Car Trips

Being in a car for long periods of time can be stressful for people of all ages, especially seniors. Pack a bag that includes a variety of activities, snacks and entertainment. Depending on the length of the trip, it may be necessary to stop at a hotel for the night, so make sure to call for reservations ahead of time. When booking hotel rooms, make sure to ask for a room on the first floor or one that can be accessed by an elevator.

With proper planning, traveling with elderly loved ones can be a great experience for everyone. The most important thing to remember when traveling with elderly loved ones is to have fun. Take this time to enjoy each other’s company and make a lot of new memories.

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Northbrook, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.

 

Jamie Shapiro
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