Traveling with the most valuable cargo in your life, an elderly loved one, whether it's a parent, grandmother, auntie or uncle, may be challenging. Whether you're on a quest to travel from point A to point B for practical reasons or you're on vacation together, you don't want any drama. Experts offer tips on how to travel safely with an elderly relative.
Christina Grace, who writes for the adventure family blog Live a Wilder Life, began taking her elderly father on excursions with her small kid after he suffered a catastrophic stroke and is significantly disabled. She suggests a few things to consider before going on a trip. Let's take a look into it.
Keep your expectations in check.
"We are a busy family who are willing to wake up at 6 a.m. to avoid crowds and have a better experience." I know I have to sacrifice early morning wakeups and nonstop itineraries when I travel with my father. He need a lot of sleep and rest periods throughout the day." Expect the pace to be slower than it would be if you weren't going with them. You may not be able to view all of the attractions. Be adaptable.
Before you leave, decide what is most essential to you. "Know why you're going together and what you want to gain out of it. For me, it's about spending quality time with my father and assisting him in travelling and seeing the globe because he requires a lot of assistance. "Knowing your purpose helps you to create a clear plan based on your trip's objectives," she explains.
Choose your lodgings carefully.
"Make sure the hotels have elevators, and the rooms should be near to the elevators," advises Nicole Hunter, a travel blogger for Go Far Grow Close who has travelled frequently with her parents, who are in their eighties.
It's a good idea to reserve a disabled room when staying in a hotel since mishaps are more likely when an elderly parent is in strange settings, and handicapped accommodations are more user-friendly, she adds.
Choose a home base that is convenient for everyone.
"A lot of the time, my hobbies and my parents' interests are at odds, which means we have different ideas about what we want to do on vacation." As a result, if they want to spend the day at the pool, reading, resting, and going for short walks while I want to hike in a national park, I look for lodgings with a great pool and recreation area while I want to be close to or in the national park. "Think about it, be conscious of it, compromise, and do your best," Hunter advises.
Choose your seating and mode of transportation carefully.
Consider where your parents will sit regardless of how you go. If you're travelling, an aisle seat with an adjustable arm would be the best option. If you're flying, try to book nonstop flights. It might be hard for them to have long layovers or to catch a connecting flight. Also keep in mind that certain airlines provide elder discounts and amenities. Senior folks can use wheelchairs for free at all airports.
Perhaps you schedule some spa time for the two of you, or do something nice for yourself while they snooze. The objective is for everyone to return home in a better state than when they went, with fond recollections.
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