Summer is the time to relax and get away. So if your schedule allows and travel restrictions are at a minimum, enjoy a vacation with these tips Great Care has researched while keeping seniors in mind.
The first tips come from TV’s Samantha Brown, a globe-trotter who has visited 220 cities in 49 countries, and shares the joy of seeing the world through her partnership with AARP. She is a mother of 5-year-old twins, Ellis and Elizabeth, who flew for the first time at 2 months. So she’s familiar with her role as a caregiver while traveling the world. Brown offers has a list of “7 Travel Essentials” on the AARP website, which allows her to share her traveling expertise with others.
“The next time you get ready to take off, consider adding these useful objects to your list — although I warn you, it might mean a trip to the toy store,” Brown says.
Her #4 travel essential she insists is a must-have is Pinky Balls.
“Want to know how to feel like you’ve had a $100 massage for about 4 bucks? Pinky Balls! You can usually find these toys-turned-massage therapy tools in toy stores, but if you can’t find them, tennis balls will suffice,” she says. “When every muscle in my body aches after spending all day on my feet, I put the balls on the floor, lay my aching back on them, and push up with my knees so my weight is pressed down on the rosy rubber orbs. I then roll them down my back, under my legs and past my calves, slowly working out all the kinks and knots.”
Brown also has specific “Tips for Physically Challenged Travelers” through AARP that can help many seniors with mobility issues. These include considering a cruise for an scenic summer travel plan because of the amenities offered.
“Many cruise lines have amenities for travelers with disabilities. Holland America offers a wheelchair-accessible system that makes it easier to get on shore. Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class ships provide wheelchair lifts at swimming pools and hot tubs,” she says.
“Norwegian Cruise Line has a dedicated toll-free number that connects travelers to professional experts who can assist passengers and make sure the onboard staff is properly prepared to help,” Brown adds. “And some Princess ships distribute kits for passengers who are blind or hard of hearing. These cruise lines all have ships with about 30 accessible cabins as well.”
Third Age, which is self-described as a health and wellness site targeted to women of all ages and their families, provides many resources for caregivers who will be taking loved ones on a much-needed vacation. They consulted the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, who had vacation-planning tips, including sticking to the routine.
”Changes in routine can be disorienting to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses,” the article reports. “Try to mirror your loved one’s routine where possible, for example, keeping the same bed and waking times, and taking meals at the time to which the individual is accustomed. This can help lessen anxiety.”
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The most important advice when traveling with seniors from all sources is to be prepared ahead of time to make sure to have a low-stress vacation to remember.
”Determine the travel itinerary ahead of time and make sure all who are traveling, as well as loved ones at home,” says Third Age.
For more information and resources for caregivers from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, call 866-232-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org.
Bon voyage this summer! ☀✈ 🛳 🚘 🗺
The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs, including respite care. Great Care is a non-medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (888) 240-9101 for more information.
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