When we are kids summer vacations are all about carefree fun, rest and relaxation. However, as people turn into adults, organizing a good old-fashioned family vacation with senior parents can become a heavy burden. It’s important to know that it is still possible to have some much deserved ‘me-time’ while your aging loved ones are out having a good time on their own, too.
Remember your senior citizen when booking the residence
If you wish to spend the vacation with your aging loved ones then you must think outside the box. Don’t let nostalgia blind you, as the years have passed your relative’s ability to deal with traveling conditions have dwindled. The first step should be a thorough consultation with their physician to determine what medication should be packed. In addition, calculate in the elderly person’s medical condition when choosing the destination, for example if they suffer from asthma then you should cross out locations with humid temperature.
The next important step is to decide on the method of transportation. Frail old people might not want to be jolted around in a car for days and might prefer a shorter plane ride. Others, however, might rather stick to a safer method of transportation, in which case look up whether the local community organizes special bus tours exclusively for elderly passengers.
When booking the hotel, there are a couple of factors to consider. Pick a ground-level room or one that’s close to the elevator to spare seniors from climbing the stairs. Ask the hotel manager whether they offer special benefits for aging guests. You should also research the local hospitals and see whether you can rent medical equipment, just in case.
Traveling companions
If you wish to go on a vacation with your aging relative but intend to spend some of the trip on your own, then it’s recommended to hire a traveling caregiver. Numerous aides are specialized in accompanying aging adults on various trips, providing them with comfort during the bus or flight tour, carrying their bags and organizing local transport. With a traveling buddy by their side seniors are no longer bound to the same activities as you, meaning you can hit the beach while they go visit the historic sites in town.
Seniors can also have a good time among their peers. It’s getting more and more common that nursing homes organize vacations for their residents. As seen in the linked article, eight seniors from the Hebrew Home of Riverdale spent an unforgettable two weeks in Israel, which was organized by the home’s attendants. The age ranged between 77 and 93 and they were accompanied by a nurse, a doctor, a tour manager and several orderlies. The trip was so popular that several other nursing homes copied the idea to provide a fulfilling summer for their residents.
Don’t forget their medical alert system
Mobile buttons are the best option if you’re planning a road trip where new locations are visited each day, since seniors are able to carry the help button with them. On-the-go stations, however, are best if you plan to be in a resort or on a cruise line for the most of the trip because the elderly family member would only need protection in their room, as the staff would be available should something happen during the day.
Nevertheless, be sure to pick a medical alert company that has reliable fall detection, a must-have feature for aging adults who would like to indulge in physical activities. Also, if you plan to spend some time separately, then be sure to opt for a button with GPS tracking technology. Not only could it help you find them if they stray away, but they can also call the monitoring headquarters to ask for directions if they need it.
Tamás Ő.
Adam B.
