Vacation Travel for Elderly
Summer is a time for sun, fun, and relaxation! This summertime bliss can be affected when caring for an elderly loved one. Being a primary caregiver can be especially stressful when it comes to thinking about summer vacations and traveling. Midwest Home Care wants to ensure that you and your family have the best possible vacation, so we have provided you with some tips so that your loved ones can more easily participate in the summer fun while traveling.
First, contact Primary Care Physician to ensure that your loved one is healthy enough to travel. It is also very important, especially when traveling outside of the country, to contact the Physician to make sure that all vaccines are up to date.
Research is key for any great trip, especially with aging loved ones that may need extra assistance. Whether traveling by car, airline, train, cruise ship, etc. research what special services are available based on your loved one's needs; such as special dietary requirements, wheelchair accessibility, hearing or visual assistance, etc. Many amenities available for the elderly are a phone call away such as calling ahead for special services for going through the airport, asking for a disabled travelers row on an airplane, making sure that the hotel has proper amenities and is wheelchair friendly if needed.
Medication is a fact of life for most of the elderly. It is a good idea to research any special medical forms needed if your loved one is traveling with an oxygen tank or other medication. A note from the doctor describing medical conditions and medication reasoning should be included just in case. Along with research, make sure that medication is properly stored. Medication should be stored in carry-on bags in case of need during the flight or drive and in case of lost baggage. Medication does not have to comply with the 3oz or single quart-sized bag rule when flying but it should be in the original, labeled containers, all together in one location, and be a reasonable quantity for the length of stay whether flying or driving.
Having a tidy home is important to living a healthy lifestyle but making sure the right people are doing it is paramount. Employing a company with trusted and certified Home Care Aids, like Midwest Home Care, will provide your loved one not only with excellent Daily Home Care but also outstanding medical care, all in one.
