5 Tips for Traveling with Someone who has Alzheimer's

As someone living with Alzheimer's, I can tell you that traveling with the condition can be hard, especially depending on the stage. Families often ask me for advice and suggestions when planning to take their loved one with Alzheimer's on a vacation. I encourage them to think about where and what they want to do, and to keep in mind that routine is important to someone with Alzheimer's.

Read on as I share more tips for caregivers to consider before traveling with someone living with Alzheimer's.

1. Plan every detail

Before traveling, plan out every aspect of the trip. Talk to your loved one with Alzheimer's each day of the trip and try to explain what you will be doing that day. For me, I do not wants to be overloaded with information about the entire trip. I also recommend sticking to the plan as much as possible. For example, don't tell a loved one, "You are going to see Aunt Rebecca today," and then not see them.

2. Think about car travel

If traveling by car think about the environment inside the car. Is music or a video going to be played for others enjoyment? In my experience, that can be too loud or distracting. Pack ear phones or ear plugs for your loved one if the sounds are too loud, or agree that there can’t be music playing. Other passengers can use ear phones as well. Plan for rest stops and food. Be sure the temperature of the car is it is comfortable and take a throw blanket in case your loved one get cold.

3. Take turns caring for your loved one

If several people are going on the trip, take turns being responsible for your loved one. It may be overwhelming for everyone, but it can help to share the responsibilities. Plus, you may see something that others don't. By working together, you can make sure all of your loved one's needs are taken care of.

4. Prepare for unfamiliar people and large gatherings

Many people I know want to take their loved ones to family reunions or to visit family they may have not seen in a long time. If the family you're visiting are not familiar with the situation, explain that your loved one with Alzheimer's may not remember them. Show photos of family members to your loved one before you go – it may spark a memory.

I find that if it is a large gathering of people, it can be too much stimulation and confusing for those of us with Alzheimer’s. If going to a reunion, I recommend limiting the number of people that interact with your loved one at any given time. Realize that you may have to take a break from the reunion to give your family member some alone time. If it gets too overwhelming, it might be best to have family members come visit you wherever you are staying.

5. Remember your loved one's routine

Unknown circumstances can be a huge trigger for those of us living with the disease. On your trip, remember the routine of the person afflicted with Alzheimer’s. You may have to be flexible in order to make that routine possible.

Take your loved one to restaurants they are familiar with, even if you hoped to try something new. Be sure you pack the snacks they like, too. I recommend that you do not travel with someone they aren't familiar with. And ensure the type of transportation is something they are comfortable with. For example, don't try a cross country road trip with someone who isn't used to riding in a car for hours at a time.

Travel is possible

You can make travel happen – it just takes a plan and for everyone to be on the same page. If your family member gets agitated on your trip, take steps to decrease their frustrations and keep the situation under control. Travel may require modifications, like stopping for a night before you get to your destination. But if you're willing to be flexible in your plans, traveling with someone who has Alzheimer's is still possible.