Traveling with an older person can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience that provides you and themwith many benefits. Whether you’re traveling overseas or a short distance from home, it’s essential to be well prepared and ensure that you carry everything they will need to stay comfortable and safe while on the go.
Here are six things to carry with you while traveling with an older person, along with some tips and considerations to keep in mind:
1. Personal Hygiene Products
Elderly people may have special needs concerning personal hygiene, so it’s important to bring products such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, adult diapers, and other necessary hygiene items.
Incontinence is a common issue among elderly individuals, and it’s essential to be prepared for any potential accidents. You should carry Prevail adult diapers while traveling with the elderly, as they are a reliable and discreet option for managing incontinence. Be sure to bring enough supplies for the trip and extra bags for disposing of used diapers.
2. Medications
Having all of the older person’s medications with you while traveling is crucial, including any prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Make sure to bring enough for the duration of thetrip, as well as someextra in case of delays or emergencies.
It’s also a good idea to carry a list of their medications, including the dosages and frequency. This will be useful if you need to refill a prescription or seek medical attention while away from home.
Consider packing the medications in their original containers, as this will make it easier to identify them and ensure that you have the correct dosages. It’s also a good idea to carry a small pill organizer or case to keep the medications organized and easily accessible.
If the older adult has any special needs or restrictions when taking their medications (e.g., they need to be taken with food or water), follow these guidelines while on the go.
3. Medical Documents
It’s essential to have a copy of the older person’s medical history, including any allergies or preexisting conditions, and a list of their current medications. This will help healthcare professionals provide the best possible care in case of an emergency and help you with airport security.
Consider carrying these documents in a waterproof and easily accessible location, such as a folder or zipper pouch in your handbag or carry-on if you’re traveling by plane.
In addition to their medical history, you may also want to bring along a list of the elderly person’s medical providers and their contact information. This will be useful if you seek medical attention while traveling or have questions about the person’s care.
It would be best if you also considered carrying a copy of their insurance card and any other documents that might be required in an emergency (e.g., a power of attorney or advanced directive).
4. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit can come in handy for minor injuries or illnesses while on the go. Make sure to include items such as band-aids, gauze, adhesive tape, over-the-counter pain relievers, and any other items that may be necessary. Consider packing a few extra supplies in case you need to treat more than one person or if you run out of a particular item. If you are using a bike at your destination, check the important thing like bike documents, bike health checkups, jacket, and other accessories in advance.
Consider packing additional items specific to the older person’s needs. For example, if they have mobility issues, consider including a roll of stretchy bandage or elastic bandage for support. If they have sensitive skin, pack some extra-gentle skin care products or wipes to help keep them clean and comfortable.
5. Comfortable Clothing and Shoes
It’s crucial for the elderly to wear comfortable clothing and shoes while traveling, especially if they will be sitting for long periods. Consider packing clothes that are easy to put on and take off, shoes that are slip-resistant and have good support, and for added comfort, compression socks.
If the person has mobility issues or difficulty with skill, you should pack clothing with features such as elastic waistbands or Velcro closures to make it easier for them to dress.
In addition to comfort, it’s also essential to consider the weather and the type of activities you will be doing while traveling. Pack layers of clothing that can be easily added or removed as needed,
6. Mobility Aids
If the older person in your care requires a wheelchair, cane, or other mobility aid, bring it along and make arrangements for its use at your destination or en route.
While most significant airports allow for the use of wheelchairs, make sure that you call at least 48 hours ahead to allow for staff dedicated to senior travel assistance for seniors to be assigned to you.
If you are using public transportation at your destination, check in advance to ensure it’s accessible for those with mobility impairments.
Bottom Line
By bringing along these six essential items, you can help ensure a smooth and comfortable trip for you and the older person in your care. With proper planning and preparation, traveling with an elderly loved one can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience that will hopefully lead to numerous memories and funny stories for a long time.
