In Travel Features

For families living with dementia, it can be hard to find things you can do together, particularly if you are looking to go on holiday. For someone with dementia, going away can be very disorientating and for those looking after them, incredibly stressful, especially if you are going to an unknown environment and changing their everyday routines, however, it can still be an enjoyable time that you can spend together, especially with a little help.

If you are planning to holiday outside of the UK, it is important to make sure you have the right insurance and to take all documentation you have from doctors and carers with you just in case. Many airlines provide a lanyard service to highlight passengers with hidden or invisible disabilities, so make sure to get one for your group so that staff and other passengers are more sensitive of your needs. Though the future of EHIC cards isn’t set in stone yet, if you’re planning to go to Europe, make sure you have one that is up to date and before you arrive, make sure you know where the local doctor surgeries, hospitals and health centres are in the local area. This is a good tip to bear in mind for a UK based staycation too, especially if you’re going somewhere you’re not familiar with. If you can though, picking a location you all already know will help them feel more in control. Especially it is one that they knew before the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Tip one – Packing

If the person with dementia wants to pack their own case, let them, but be sure to check it over before you go. It is a good idea to pack their clothes in sections, or in individual bags so it is easier for them to find when they are unpacking and dressing. You’ll already know that familiarity is important, so try to take something that they will find familiar and comforting, maybe a blanket, their own pillow cases, photographs or their favourite mug. This will help reduce the confusion they feel being somewhere they don’t know. Taking noise cancelling headphones with you will be a help to minimise distracting noises,

Tip two – make a detailed itinerary
Make sure you know exactly where you need to be at each point of your journey and holiday. If you can write it down, even better, that way you can show it to people if you get lost and also share it with the person with dementia. This will help you be more relaxed, which in turn will cause them to be calmer.

Tip three – ID and sticking in groups
One of the most scary things about looking after someone with dementia is that they can get easily confused and disorientated which in turn can lead them to get lost when out and about. Make sure that the person with dementia has ID and emergency contact details on them at all time, that way, if they do wander off and get lost, it will be easier for people to get in touch with you. It is possible to get mini GPS trackers which can be worn around their neck or in a pocket. Printing out plans of the building or area you’re staying in and letting them have it to look at while you walk them around will also help them get their bearings. It is also an idea to travel in groups of three or more, that way the person with dementia is always under the watch of several people, allowing others to sight see, go to the loo or try out a nearby attraction.

Tip four – time your activities
You’ll know that people with dementia get tired very easily, which can lead to them being confused or irritable. To make sure that everyone is having a good time, try to plan your activities for the morning when they are at their most alert. Make sure not to try and pack too many things into each day either, so you don’t overwhelm them.

Tip five – enjoy yourself!
The most important thing is that everyone has fun during your holiday, keep an eye on the person with dementia for signs of stress and anxiety, they might not be feeling it but not telling you and stay positive! Having dementia in the family doesn’t mean you can’t continue to enjoy each other’s company and make good memories!

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