8 essential tips for traveling with home care needs
Many aging adults or those with chronic illnesses require additional support, whether for self-care tasks or medical assistance. However, this should not preclude them from enjoying memorable travel experiences with their families. With meticulous planning and the right support, you can ensure not just a seamless journey but also a truly delightful vacation.
One of our recent clients enjoyed a remarkable family vacation in Europe, thanks to the dedicated support of her TrustHouse RN Care Manager, who ensured every detail of her care was meticulously planned and managed.
Before you depart, we recommend thinking about the unique needs and care requirements of your loved one. TrustHouse is here to offer expert guidance and support for those traveling with home care needs. Find valuable tips and important considerations below.
#1 Research the Destination
Before booking your trip, thoroughly research the destination and consider potential alternatives. Some people may struggle with stairs, long walks, or prolonged standing, while others may need support from a wheelchair, walker, or cane. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations in the U.S. require public facilities to accommodate disabled individuals, but some exceptions exist, and many tourist attractions outside the country may not comply. Planning ahead and noting certain activities or places that may not be ideal for your loved one is crucial.
#2 Pack Smart
Whether you anticipate a long flight, drive, or train ride, pack accordingly. Sitting for extended periods can lead to numbness or blood-clotting issues. Supportive stockings can help, but we recommend checking with a healthcare provider about other preventative measures. Bring plenty of water, as dehydration is a potential health concern for senior travelers. Pack lightweight, layerable clothing and keep a change on hand anytime you leave your accommodation. Medications should be clearly labeled and readily available.
#3 Consider Transportation
Arriving at your destination is one thing, but consider how your party will get around while there. Whether driving a rental car, taking public transportation, using cabs, or ride-share services, think about how your family member will get in and out of each vehicle and whether frequent stops will be necessary. If they use a cane, wheelchair, or walker, find out if or how it can be brought along.
#4 Create an Accommodating Itinerary
Beyond choosing a destination and means of transportation, it’s important to create an accommodating itinerary. Consider:
When your loved one wakes up and goes to bed
Meal times and dietary restrictions
Types of attractions they can see
Facilities that accommodate limited mobility
Amount of standing or walking involved in each activity
Number of feasible events and activities per day
Accessibility of restrooms at each location
#5 Schedule Rest Periods
An accommodating itinerary should include plenty of rest periods. Consider your loved one’s physical capacity in terms of mobility, stamina, and energy levels. If you have multiple activities planned in a day, be sure to leave breaks in between.
#6 Allot Plenty of Time
Allot plenty of time not just on the day of departure but for every event throughout your trip. Whether your family member needs a wheelchair or can walk on their own, expect each checkpoint to take longer than usual—from getting in and out of cars and going through airport security to boarding a plane and getting ready each morning.
#7 Keep Important Documents on Hand
When traveling with a senior, keep all essential documents on hand and organized. This includes a passport or another government-issued ID, as well as Medicare and medical insurance cards (or at least a photo of this information). If your aging family member doesn’t use a smartphone (and even if they do), print out their boarding pass and itinerary for easier access. It might be a good idea to have a copy of their prescriptions too.
#8 Arrange for a TrustHouse Nurse to Travel With You
At TrustHouse, our clients can work with their RN Care Managers to plan for travel with the support and care of their regular caregiving team. Registered Nurses can help coordinate a plan for medications, meals, and accommodations for needed medical equipment, all while providing companionship during the journey. The extra assistance gives families peace of mind about traveling with their loved ones while ensuring they’re cared for every step of the way. Whether you need 24/7 support or help for a few hours a day, it can make a world of difference.
TrustHouse is a premier, bespoke in-home care provider that delivers personalized services tailored to meet the exacting standards of discerning families. With rigorously vetted, trained, and certified private duty nurses, we guarantee superior care, better health outcomes, and enhanced peace of mind.
To request care or learn more about TrustHouse, please contact us at 212.776.4390.