Travelling with Dementia: Tips for making the most of your trip

Living with dementia shouldn't hold you back from taking a break with family and friends. With the right travel insurance policy and a carefully planned itinerary, nothing should stop you from getting out there and enjoying the pleasures of a holiday abroad. Taking a holiday can even have a positive effect on someone who has dementia.

Tips for travelling with Dementia

Travelling with dementia is not only possible but can also be beneficial. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make your trip as smooth as possible:

Carry ID at all times and take copies too

Make sure the person with dementia wears some form of identification at all times. This is especially helpful in the case of seniors that tend to wander, as the ID will allow for the appropriate authorities to get in contact with you, should your loved one go missing. The best forms of ID are wearable, such as ID bracelets and names printed into clothes. Be sure that they have your number and a list of their medical conditions printed out and stored in their wallet or purse.

Take copies of any important documents and ID

Take copies of any important documents, like passports so that you have a back up if something gets lost.

Keep things familiar where you can

Your loved one may find it difficult to adjust to changes in their environment. If you are travelling to a new place, then keeping surroundings familiar may present a challenge. However, you can take steps to help them feel more comfortable and at ease while travelling by bringing familiar items from home like blankets, pillows and pyjamas. Try to stick to a routine to help reduce confusion.

Consider the mode of travel

Consider which mode of travel will be the least stressful for the person travelling with dementia.

Inform hotel staff

If you're staying in a hotel, let the staff know in advance so they can offer assistance or be aware if your loved one wanders.

Purchase a good travel insurance policy

Making sure you have a good Travel Insurance policy in place is an important part of any trip. This will protect you in the case of having to cancel your trip due to an emergency or if you have a medical emergency abroad.

Keep the bathroom light on at night

This will help the person travelling with dementia stay safe if they wake up in an unfamiliar environment.

Carry a recent photo of them

Carrying a photo means you have a recent picture to show the relevant staff or authorities in the case of the person with dementia going missing.

---

Flying with Dementia

Ask for airport assistance

Do not hesitate to ask for wheelchair assistance. Even if you do not require it, requesting wheelchair support can be beneficial for navigating security checkpoints. It can also simplify the process and minimise stress.

Tell your airline prior to travelling

Don't be afraid to let the airline know and check if they can provide any help. Priority boarding is often offered for people with disabilities – this includes people living with dementia too.

Pack any essentials in your hand luggage

Keep any essential medical supplies, snacks, water and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage so that these are available to you at all times.

Travel during quieter times

Try to travel at quieter times if you are able to. Avoiding the summer rush for example can have a big impact on how busy the airport is and therefore the stress the person with dementia may feel. You might also want to think about whether they have a time of day that's best for them too. For example if they are more agitated in the morning then you may want to avoid travelling at this time.

Keep journeys short and limit connections and layovers

A shorter, simpler journey will help minimise stress. If you are travelling alone with someone suffering from dementia, then it is recommended that you limit travel time to no more than 4 hours.

---

Travel Insurance for Dementia

Having the right travel insurance is essential when travelling with dementia. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Always declare if you have dementia when taking out travel insurance. Failing to do so could invalidate any claims related to your injury.
• Follow Doctor's Advice: Check with your doctor before travelling, as going against medical advice could invalidate your insurance.

This guide is here to offer helpful tips and general advice, but for tailored guidance specific to your health and travel plans, it's always best to consult your doctor before you go, notify your airline, and plan ahead for any challenges along the way.