Travel with an Older Adult

Caregivers need respite, but the thought of spending time away from our care recipients is often anxiety-inducing. Based on the success of our latest experience, I came up with five tips for dementia caregivers who are planning a holiday.

Travel plans can run into any number of speedbumps, but incontinence doesn’t have to be one of them. Use these pointers to prevent embarrassing situations and ensure that the journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

When traveling with a mobility aid, artificial joint, pacemaker, oxygen concentrator or liquid medications, use these insights from a TSA spokesperson to get through security checkpoints quickly and easily.

Traveling with an aging adult can present some challenges, but seniors and caregivers can enjoy a safe journey by planning ahead with these tips.

Memory problems and dementia-related behavior changes can get you into some sticky situations. As a caregiver, I’ve discovered a simple solution for making outings less stressful and more successful: “dementia companion cards.”

Some diseases and age-related health conditions can reduce lung function and require a senior to use supplemental oxygen. Learn how to pay for oxygen therapy, ensure your loved one is using the right equipment and follow safety precautions.

Many seniors plan to travel after retiring, but depending on the destination and the nature of one’s Medicare coverage, you may be left paying for prescriptions, routine treatments or a medical emergency entirely out of pocket.

A medigap plan can save you money if you'll be undergoing surgery, are at risk for health issues or plan to travel outside of the United States.

As care needs increase, many long-distance caregivers decide that their elders would receive better care if they lived closer. The best option for moving seniors who can't handle car trips or air travel is to use a non-emergency medical transport service.

A caregiver’s story: I recently found out the hard way that a vacation with a dementia patient isn’t much of a vacation after all.

Family caregivers often think that taking a vacation with an elderly parent or relative who requires special care is out of the question. But with careful planning and some minor accommodations, many seniors can still participate in family vacations.

I recently met a man with Alzheimer's who changed my outlook on my own future with Alzheimer's disease.

Cruise vacations are a great option for seniors because they can do as much or as little as they want, depending on their level of ability. See how you can adapt a getaway on the high seas to fit the entire family’s needs and interests.

Traveling with a senior can be difficult, especially when you have to go through airport security with elderly medical devices. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented screening guidelines specific to the elderly.

You don't have to cancel the family vacation just because a loved one is getting older. Transportation options, activities and accommodations may need to be adapted, but with some planning, taking a trip with a senior can be a wonderful experience.

Independent living communities come in a variety of sizes, shapes and price points. See how these five innovative and slightly unusual options cater to the specific needs and interests of aging adults.

When a senior can no longer drive, it’s important that there are alternate transportation options available to them. Be sure to consider costs, accessibility, safety and medical needs when selecting transportation and driving services for an elder.