caret icon Back to all discussions

Traveling with Alzhiemers

My husband has early stage dementia, and going through TSA is difficult and confusing for him. He usually stands close by and would be very upset with me if I explained that he has dementia to the TSA officer.

  1. Hi ! When my Dad was able to still travel we had his doctor write a formal letter stating his diagnosis and the challenges that accompany it. We were able to show it to the agent at the desk and sometimes were permitted to use the walk-through metal detector to avoid confusion with following directions (e.g. hands over head body scanner) and also were able to board early so he could get settled in. The letter also gave us access to the carts that drive through the airport so he wouldn't have to navigate the crowds. Hope this helps!

    Please read our rules before posting.