Tracy and her mother, Carol, who has dementia, will be taking a trip together. Planning the holiday around Carol's dementia symptoms will make the getaway more enjoyable for mother and daughter. Home Care Arlington brings you a small story here;
Travel Arrangements
Being in the second stage of dementia is not easy, an airport can easily confuse and frustrate Carol. Her dementia symptoms get worsen in the late afternoon. Knowing this, Tracy booked an early flight.
Carol’s mom can walk, still, Tracy arranged a wheelchair to make transport easier for Carol. Tracy will go through the terminal map to find the quickest route to the gate and restroom locations.
Tracy also looked for the turnaround time between connecting flights. Being with mom will make it a little difficult to meet tight connections. It is highly suggested to avoid long layovers when traveling with a loved one who has dementia. Tracy will also inform the airport security that Carol has dementia.
Take a Third Party Along
Tracy invited her girlfriend Stephanie to be a travel companion. Both mother and daughter enjoy Stephanie's company, so the trip will be more pleasant. Stephanie agreed to act as a relief caregiver, so Tracy could have the downtime that a caregiver needs. Tracy explained her mom's situation thoroughly to Stephanie.
Making Accommodations
During their excursion, Carol, Tracy, and Stephanie will be staying with Tracy's sister Anne. People with dementia need to keep on a regular schedule. Lodging at Anne's house will facilitate following Carol's usual daily schedule. Before they arrive, Tracy will explain to her sister how dementia affects their mom and tell Anne how to prepare her home to meet their mother's needs.
Had it been necessary to stay at a hotel, Tracy would have researched to find a lodging establishment that offers special accommodations beneficial to her mom like childproof doorknob covers to guard against wandering. Finding their way around a hotel with many corridors can confuse a person with dementia, making a small hotel a better choice.
Planning The Itinerary
Tracy began planning her and her mom's itinerary early, allowing time to research attractions. Tracy took into account the amount of walking involved and if the site offered a quiet place where her mom could rest and calm down if necessary. So Carol doesn't become overstimulated by too much activity and motion, Tracy will visit more crowded and exciting destinations alone during her deserved me-time. The day's adventures will end before fatigue begins exacerbating Carol's dementia symptoms.
Take Wandering Precautions
Her daughter will register Carol with a safe return program. Carol will wear a medical ID bracelet that bears her name, the word " Dementia", and Tracy's name and cell phone number.
Packing
Tracy will pack her mom's healthcare documents, including the contact information for Carol's doctor and a medication list containing dosages. A copy of Carol's healthcare proxy, living will, and the POA will be taken along as will a list of Carol's allergies.
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