As the sun smiles brightly, beckoning us to embark on summer adventures, it's a wonderful time for families and friends to come together and create cherished memories. For seniors with dementia, traveling during the summer can still be a joyous experience with careful planning and consideration. Their safety and comfort is important while embracing the spirit of adventure.

 

Here are 7 travel tips for seniors with early stages of dementia

 

 

Plan with Familiarity in Mind

 When planning a summer trip, opt for familiar destinations or places that hold cherished memories. Visiting a place with sentimental value can evoke positive emotions and feelings of comfort. Consider returning to a beloved childhood hometown or family cottage.

 

Create a Detailed Itinerary

Crafting a well-structured itinerary helps maintain a sense of routine and predictability for seniors with dementia. Plan activities during their most alert and content times of day, and avoid overly stimulating or tiring activities. Keep the pace leisurely and allow for plenty of breaks to rest and recharge.

 

Embrace the Power of Music and Familiar Routines

Music can be incredibly soothing and therapeutic for seniors with dementia. Create a playlist of their favorite songs and play it during travel or leisure times. Stick to familiar routines as much as possible to provide a sense of stability and reassurance.

 

Choose Senior-Friendly Accommodations

Select accommodations that prioritize safety and comfort. Seek out hotels or vacation rentals with well-lit hallways, grab bars in bathrooms, and wheelchair accessibility if required. Inform the hotel staff about your loved one's condition so they can offer any necessary support.

 

Utilize Travel Aids

Consider using travel aids that can enhance the journey's ease and enjoyment. If flying, arrange for wheelchair assistance at airports. Use luggage with bright and distinctive tags to make identifying bags easier. Carry a GPS tracker or a discreet identification bracelet with your contact information.

 

Be Mindful of Sun Exposure

While enjoying outdoor activities, be vigilant about protecting your loved one from the sun. Apply sunscreen generously, wear sun hats and sunglasses, and take breaks in shaded areas. Consider scheduling outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.

 

Consult healthcare professional

Always consult with healthcare professionals before planning any travel with seniors who have dementia. Each individual's condition is unique, and personalized recommendations may be necessary.

 

 

Traveling with a senior who has dementia requires extra planning and attention, but with the right preparations, it can be a rewarding and heartwarming experience. By choosing familiar destinations and creating a detailed itinerary, you can ensure your loved one's safety and comfort. Embrace the journey with love, patience, and understanding, and cherish the precious moments spent together during this summer's adventures.

 

Please share your tips in the comments below!

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5 Easy DIY Mother’s Day Gifts

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your appreciation for your mom than with a thoughtful and heartfelt gift? While there are plenty of store-bought gifts available, but nothing quite compares to a handmade gift that comes straight from the heart.

 

Here’s a list of 5 Easy DIY Mother's Day Gift ideas that are perfect for your mom.

 

Photo by Les Anderson on Unsplash

 

Personalized Photo Collage

Collect some of your favorite family photos and create a personalized photo collage for your mom. You can easily make a collage online or print the photos and arrange them in a photo frame. The collage will spark happy memories and it can be a great tool to facilitate reminiscing.

 

Homemade Candles

Make your mom feel special with homemade scented candles. You can use a candle-making kit or make it from scratch using soy wax, essential oils, and candle wicks. Decorate the jar with a ribbon, some glitter or your mom’s favourite florals to make it look beautiful.

 

Memory Jar

Write down your favorite memories with your mom on small slips of paper and fill them in a jar. Decorate the jar with some colorful ribbons and a tag. Your mom can pick one slip of paper each day and cherish the beautiful memories. You can also include special small knick-knacks, like stamps from important letters or hairpins from her youth.  

 

DIY Potted Plants

Buy some small plants and decorate the pots with some paint or stickers. You can also add a personal touch by writing a message or your mom's name on the pot. This is a great gift for moms who love gardening and a fun activity you can do together.

 

Spend the day Together.

In today's fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in our busy lives and forget to make time for the people who matter most. Taking the time to spend the day with your mom, whether it's going for a walk, having a meal together, or simply sitting down for a cup of tea and a chat, is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation.

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