Someone with dementia may well have trouble preparing for travel and remembering the details of the planned journey. This can add additional pressure and stress on those travelling with them. Here are a few tips to help with the journey:
- If your are travelling by car and the journey is a lengthy one, try to think up interesting things to do to break up the journey, Maybe, stop for a nice meal somewhere or visit an interesting location.
- Plan ahead for toilet breaks, ensuring the services have accessible toilets.
- If you have to travel to an airport, station or coach park, give yourself plenty of time for the journey; this will help reduce stress for both you and the person you care for. Arriving early can be beneficial as there are fewer queues and shorter waiting times.
- Busy places can be confusing and stressful for a person with dementia, so consider travelling at less busy times, avoiding weekends during the summer months.
- Stations and airports can be confusing places. It can be easy to get lost or to lose touch with someone. If you are travelling with someone with dementia, always make a note of what they are wearing and carry a recent photograph of them. This could help if any problems arise on that day.
- If you need assistance, look for those wearing official uniforms such as security guards or station conductors.
Travelling by air
- If you are flying, you may be required to inform the airline that your companion has dementia. Most airlines do not require information for those with stable conditions, but do check when booking.
- Before booking, consider what the different airlines can offer you in way of support. Many airlines can offer support on arrival and can accompany you to the check-in gate.
- If the airline cannot help, many of the airports offer support services. Contact the airport or check their website for information.
- When booking plane tickets, make sure that you are seated next to the person you care for. Some airlines charge for seat allocations but they may be able to arrange for you and the person to sit together for free. Let the airline know about the person’s needs when you book.
- If your companion is likely to wander, it may be a good idea to request an aisle seat for yourself so you are aware of their movements.
- Noise-cancelling headphones can help calm, particularly if playing familiar music.
- If your flight is cancelled and you or the person with dementia needs some rest, ask the airline to help arrange this for you. This is a good reason to tell the airline of any medical conditions before you travel.
Travelling by coach or train
- If you are travelling by coach or train, a member of staff should be able to help with carrying and loading your luggage into the storage area or baggage racks. You should keep all valuables, tickets and medication with you in a separate bag.
- Many coach and rail operators offer their own services to support travellers. Contact the company you are travelling with to find out what additional support they can offer.
- Some coaches do not have easily accessible toilet facilities on board. Again, it is worth checking with the operator before booking.
Travelling by boat or ship
- Before booking, check with your chosen operator whether they require medical clearance. Also, make it known to them any assistance you need.
- When on board ensure your companion has their cabin number with them at all times.
- For some people with dementia, a tour on a cruise ship can be a good option as the longer stay allows time to settle into a daily routine.
- Cruise ships offer a wide range of activities and entertainment. Check with the operator if these activities are designed to be inclusive for people living with dementia.
- Some cruise ships are enormous and could prove very disorientating for someone with dementia. It may be worth considering a smaller ship.
Travelling by car
- Travelling by car can be a good option for someone with dementia. It allows more flexibility for the quantity of luggage and break stops. It also allows you to plan your own journey.
- If you have any concerns about your companion getting agitated in the car, potentially creating a safety issue, consider asking someone else to travel with you to reassure your companion.
- If you are worried that they may open the car door or remove their seatbelt. Seat them in the back of the care and initiate the child safety locks and try covering the clasp on the seatbelt.
- If you are stopping at motorway services, these can be very busy and can become confusing for a person with dementia. It is a good idea to write them down the details of your vehicle (make, colour, reg number etc) or give them a colour photograph in case you get separated in the crowds.