By Danielle Pelliccio, MSW, Clinical Supervisor
Traveling with elderly family members during the holidays can be heartwarming, creating cherished memories for all generations.
However, it also requires careful planning and consideration of the unique needs and challenges that seniors may face. To ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday trip, we have created a comprehensive checklist covering everything from pre-trip preparations to the journey’s conclusion.
Pre-Trip Preparations: Schedule a quick doctor’s visit before leaving to ensure they are cleared for travel, whether for an extended or short mini vacation. Discuss any necessary medications and vaccinations, and obtain a written copy of their medical history, including medications.
Consult with your Elderly Family Member: Plan the trip with the older adults involved. Understand their preferences, limitations, and medical conditions that may affect travel. Avoid over-scheduling. Pick one primary attraction for the morning when energy levels are highest, followed by a relaxed lunch and a low-key afternoon.
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays. It is a good idea to check the TSA rules to ensure a smooth flight check-in process.
Mobility Aids: If needed, arrange for mobility aids such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, or portable ramps. Please make sure they are in good working condition.
Packing Essentials: Make sure the vehicle is easy to get in and out of. If needed, pack a small, sturdy (collapsible) step stool or secure any necessary mobility equipment (like wheelchair anchors). Bring ergonomic support items like a lumbar seat cushion, neck pillows, and a light blanket since seniors often feel temperature fluctuations more acutely. Pack a small cooler with plenty of water and their favorite familiar snacks to keep energy levels stable without relying entirely on fast food.
Comfortable Clothing: Pack comfortable/loose, weather-appropriate clothing for the elderly traveler. Layers are ideal for adapting to changing temperatures. Compression stockings are great for prolonged inactivity in the air or on the road. (If traveling by train/plane, pack an extra set of clothes in the overhead bin.)
Personal Care Items: Bring personal hygiene products, adult diapers (if necessary), liners, flushable personal wipes, disposable bags, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, travel-sized first aid kit, and over-the-counter essentials.
Medication List: Keep all medications in their original containers (so you have the physician’s name and pharmacy number just in case/or take a photo and store it on your phone) and pack at least a few days of extra doses in a pill organizer in case of unexpected delays. Keep a paper copy of their medical summary and emergency contacts in the glove box/travel bag/your cell phone.
Medical Records: (download on your phone and theirs before the trip) Remember insurance cards and any copies of healthcare directives in case of an emergency and the need for medical care. Be prepared with doctor’s names and access to your loved one’s healthcare portal, if needed.
Personal Assistive Devices: Do not forget hearing aids, eyeglasses, and other assistive devices the older adult relies on.
Travel Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including passports and ID cards.
Frequent Breaks: Plan frequent rest stops during long car trips or flights (every 2-3 hours). Give the traveler a chance to stretch, walk, and use the restroom.
Medication Schedule: Follow the prescribed medication schedule, even while traveling. Set alarms or reminders to ensure timely dosages.
Accommodation Accessibility: Request ADA-compliant accommodations. Skip the stairs; see if the hotel/facility has an elevator. Choose accessible lodging with features like grab bars in the bathroom and ramps if needed. Contact hotels in advance to confirm wheelchair accessibility if necessary.
Ground-Floor Rooms: Request ground-floor or easily accessible rooms to avoid stairs or elevators.
On-site meals/Commissary: Choosing a hotel/lodging that includes a complimentary hot breakfast or has an on-site restaurant eliminates the stress of waking up, packing everyone back into the car, and hunting down a diner first thing in the morning.
Bed Preferences: Make sure the older adult has a comfortable bed and, if needed, a suitable mattress topper. Climate-controlled rooms are essential.
Emergency Contacts: Share your itinerary and accommodation details with a trusted friend or family member in case of emergencies.
Plan Rest Days: Schedule rest days between outings so everyone can recharge. For seniors, shifting environments daily can trigger temporary confusion or heightened anxiety, especially in the evening. Staying in one place for 48 hours gives their mind a chance to settle and recognize their surroundings.
Adapt Activities: Plan activities that cater to the person’s interests and physical capabilities.
Conclusion:
Traveling with seniors during the holidays can be rewarding when well planned and executed. This checklist should help ensure their safety, comfort, and enjoyment throughout the journey. Considering their unique needs, you can create lasting memories and celebrate the holidays with peace of mind.
If you or someone you care about needs additional support to help cope, The Option Group is here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact our professional care management team for assistance.
About The Option Group: Founded in 2011, The Option Group’s compassionate team of experienced Certified Life Care Managers provides services for families, their loved ones, medical professionals, and professional family advisors in Maryland, DC, Southern Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The firm understands the challenges of caring for individuals who need assistance throughout their lifespan due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Our skilled providers, from a variety of backgrounds and deep expertise, help families navigate the healthcare maze and access hundreds of resources. The Option Group helps families spend quality time with their loved ones, providing Clear Choices that lead to Better Care. For more information, visit www.theoptiongroup.net or call 410-667-0266 (MD), 717-287-9900, 610-885-8899, or 215-896-6756 (PA), or 302-858-6449 (DE).