Tips for traveling with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s: Melissa Zapanta-Shelton

Guest columnist Melissa Zapanta-Shelton rejoined the Alzheimer’s Association of the Cleveland Area as executive director. Previously, she served as vice president of development from 2014 to 2019, where she and her team contributed $2 million in annual revenue. In her new role, she will lead the association’s efforts to engage the community, raise awareness about the disease, expand the reach of free education and support throughout Northeast Ohio, and raise crucial funds to work toward the association’s mission. of a world without Alzheimer’s. Melissa and her husband live in Hinckley Township with their two children and a house full of dogs and cats.

Living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia doesn’t mean you have to stop participating in meaningful activities, like travel.

However, planning is necessary to ensure safety, comfort and fun for everyone.

As we head towards graduation and summer break, here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience for friends or family living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

Tips for a smooth travel experience:

• Regardless of distance or duration, it is important to consider the specific needs, capabilities, anxieties and preferences of everyone involved. This is crucial when evaluating how and when to travel.

• It can be helpful to stick to what is familiar. Travel to familiar destinations that involve as few changes to your daily routine as possible.

• Learn to recognize signs of anxiety and agitation and identify strategies to reduce them.

• Remember that environmental changes can trigger mind-wandering or confusion. Don’t overwhelm your loved one with too much information. Instead, focus on the excitement of the trip.

General travel considerations:

• If you are staying at a hotel, inform the staff in advance so they are prepared to meet specific needs.

• Have a plan B in case things change unexpectedly. Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover flights or hotels.

• Bring an itinerary that includes details about each destination. Give copies to anyone you are visiting and emergency contacts at home.

• Travel at a time that works best for the person with dementia. For example, if he becomes tired or more agitated in the late afternoon, avoid traveling at that time.

• Pack a carry-on bag with essential items, including up-to-date medical information and contacts, current medications, a comfortable change of clothes, water, snacks and activities.

• Stay as close to your normal routine as possible. Keep meal times and bedtimes on a familiar schedule, and recognize that eating in may be a better choice than eating in a crowded restaurant.

If you are visiting family and friends:

Prepare your family for the visit by explaining the dementia and any changes it has caused. Review any special needs and explain that you will need flexibility in meal times and activities during your stay.

Suggestions for air travel:

Moving around an airport requires focus and attention and can be distracting or tiring. Consider the following:

• Book through a travel agent or directly through the airline, which allows you to add notes, requests or special needs, such as wheelchair assistance or special meals.

• Avoid tight connections. Review airport maps in advance so you can gauge time between gates, find family restrooms, and locate customer service agents.

• Consider requesting a wheelchair or cart for help navigating security checkpoints and connections. This speeds up the process and reduces stress.

• Don’t hesitate to ask airport staff and cabin crew for help.

• Always stay with your loved one. It’s easy to get lost or confused in a busy airport or unfamiliar location.

For more tips or information about free resources in your destination, contact the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900.

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