Traveling with a loved one who has Parkinson's disease can be challenging and rewarding. It’s an opportunity to create beautiful memories together. However, careful planning is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. With adequate preparation, travel can be an enriching experience for you and the senior in your care.
Pre-Travel Planning
Your choice of destination can make a big difference. Look for Parkinson's-friendly places. Focus on destinations that offer easy access, comfortable ADA-compliant accommodations, and plenty of relaxation opportunities. These will make the stay more comfortable for your loved one.
Prioritize relaxation-friendly environments—avoid destinations that require lots of walking or have extreme weather. It's also wise to plan for shorter travel durations and incorporate frequent breaks to prevent fatigue. Before you go, talk with your loved one’s doctor to confirm they’re medically fit to travel.
Managing Medications While On the Go
Medication routines are crucial for people with Parkinson’s. Organize their medications to make it easier to maintain their regular schedule. For travel within the country, consider pill organizers with compartments for different times of the day. Always pack extra medication in case of travel delays or emergencies.
When flying to different time zones, consult with your loved one's healthcare provider about how to adjust medication times. It may be necessary to shift doses slightly in the days leading up to travel to ease the transition. Maintaining consistent timing will ensure they stay aligned with treatment schedules.
When flying to a different country, find out whether it's legal to bring in their medications. Contact the destination country's embassy or refer to the International Narcotics Control Board website. As a general rule for international travel, keep medications in their original, pharmacy-labeled packaging.
Packing Essentials
Packing smart can significantly improve the travel experience. List and organize must-have items for your loved one, including necessities and comfort items. Choose clothing that's easy to put on and take off, and focus on comfort and convenience. Don't forget travel aids and mobility equipment. Aids such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs can alleviate stress and are handy in unfamiliar environments.
Navigating Transportation
If you're traveling by air, consider ways to make the experience comfortable. Airlines usually offer special assistance for passengers with mobility issues. Contact them in advance to arrange for wheelchairs and priority boarding. Car travel can offer a sense of control and comfort. Plan for frequent stops to allow your loved one to stretch and relax.
Public transportation is another option. When choosing this, ensure that the embarkation and disembarkation points are accessible and have clear signage. Use apps or transportation websites to check for alerts that might impact travel.
Plan Your Next Trip With Personalized Support From Senior Helpers
Traveling with a loved one with Parkinson's requires thoughtful planning, but the opportunity to enjoy new experiences together is well worth it. If you’d like more support at home for a senior loved one with Parkinson’s to give you more time to prepare for your next trip, Senior Helpers Vancouver can help. We provide personalized senior home care services, from help with daily living tasks to assistance with transportation, including compassionate Parkinson’s care services for seniors living with the condition. Contact us today to explore your options in Vancouver, Longview, Camas, Kelso, and Chehalis!