Vacation planning for seniors to enjoy a hassle-free trip.

2008
Caring Workplace
Monthly Articles

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Caring Workplace Monthly Article: June 2008

Fun in the Sun! Tips for Vacation Planning
Brought to you by the Caring Workplace

This weekend marks the official beginning of Summer. Hopefully for many of you caregivers this also means your long awaited vacation is finally looming on the horizon. We would like to take this opportunity to provide you with a few travel tips and reminders to help make this summer a safe and fun season for you and your loved ones.

A little extra preparation may be necessary if your loved one is traveling with special needs, but the following tips can help in making any vacation less stressful:

~ If your loved one takes medication or relies on medical equipment such as oxygen or a wheelchair, be sure to take an adequate supply and have contact information on hand for providers in the area you will be traveling within, in case of an emergency. Speak to the physician ahead of time if there is any possible need for anti-anxiety medication, or if you have other concerns about travel.

~If you will require special assistance at the airport, or boarding a plane, be sure to let the airline know in advance. They can help make this as painless as possible!

~If you are traveling to an area with a different climate be sure to take clothing appropriate for both temperatures. Set a pace that is realistic for everyone involved, and do not try to pack too many activities into a short amount of time. Allow for plenty of rest and hydration if you are visiting a warm climate.

~Try to keep your vacation routine similar to the routine your family has at home. This can be especially important if your loved one has any cognitive impairment. Maintaining the same pattern for meal times, personal care, bed time, etc. can provide much needed stability when your loved one may be dealing with a lot of stimulation in a new environment.

~If you are traveling by car or a long distance in general, be sure that your older loved ones have plenty of opportunities to get up and stretch and take a break when needed. If your loved one has dementia, do not leave them unattended at any time.

A little proactive planning can go a long way in helping your family have a wonderful and safe vacation. Summer vacations are the perfect opportunity to create wonderful memories with our loved ones, so take advantage! And as a caregiver, be sure to HAVE FUN and RELAX during your trip. Often times we come back from vacation feeling more stressed and in need of a break more than ever. Fight that tendency by allowing adequate time to yourself and to do the things you enjoy, you deserve it!!

Information in this article was obtained from Today’s Caregiver at www.caregiver.com. If you would like additional information or support please contact Heather O’Brien at 314-802-5106, toll free at 1-888-388-1930 or hobrien@standrews1.com.

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Caring Workplace: The Resource for Working People Caring for an Older Adult.
6633 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63130 Phone: 314-802-6291 Fax: 314-726-5719 e-mail