ROAD TRIP!  WITH AN ELDER!    

Simplify trips with older loved ones.    

By: Lisa M. Petsche    

If you are planning to take an older relative on a road trip of several hours or more, thorough preparation is the key to success, especially if the person has special healthcare needs.

Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable stay.

Planning

Make plans and start necessary preparations well in advance. Make lists.

Include your loved one in the preparations to the best of his or her ability.

Research the accessibility of accommodations and attractions you wish to visit. If you're planning to stay at a motel or hotel, make reservations, especially if you'll need specific features such as a room with handicapped facilities or a ground-floor room.

Learn the location of the nearest hospital in any areas you plan to visit. Avoid destinations where a hospital is far away.

Arrange for your loved one to visit the doctor pre-trip. Share your travel plans and any health-related concerns, such as motion sickness or circulation problems.

If your loved one has trouble walking long distances, rent a wheelchair or ensure that the places you plan to visit have some available.

Have your car checked and serviced before departure.

If you're going to an unfamiliar area, obtain a road map and study it. If you belong to an automobile club, take advantage of its route-planning service.

Plan to do as much driving as possible during off-peak traffic times. Or choose the scenic route if time and your loved one's sitting tolerance permit.

Packing
Include the following items when drawing up a packing list:

-Loose-fitting, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and a cardigan for air-conditioned environments and cool evenings

-Sufficient prescription and over-the-counter medications to cover the time you plan to be away, plus a few extra days' worth in case your return is delayed

-Sunscreen, insect repellent, antihistamine and motion sickness tablets

-A list of all health conditions and medications in case of a medical emergency

-Any necessary medical equipment and supplies, such as a walking aid, food supplements, incontinence pads or diabetic supplies

-A cushion or two for comfortable positioning in the car

-An extra pair of eyeglasses and spare hearing aid batteries

-Sunglasses and umbrellas (the latter primarily for instant shade)

-A pillow and a nightlight

-Snacks and a cooler containing sandwiches and beverages

-Favorite music or books on tape for the car ride

-Emergency roadside and first aid kits

-Cell phone (Don't forget to charge it and bring a recharging unit along)

-Disabled parking permit

Driving
Top off the gas tank at frequent intervals.

Stop approximately once per hour for stretch breaks or short walks.

Choose stops that have clean, well-lit restrooms.

Wear seatbelts and, if your loved one is in the front seat, ensure that the headrest is centered at the back of his/her head.

Encourage your loved one to shift his/her weight often and to do neck and shoulder stretches and foot flexes.

Lodging
When checking in, ask for a room close to the lobby or elevator. A ground-floor room is ideal in case of an emergency in which elevators become inoperable.

If your loved one has a back problem, request a room with a recently replaced mattress.

Recreation
Space out activities and allow ample time for each.

Schedule outings for the time of day when your loved one's energy level is highest. Stick to regular meal, medication and sleep times.

Have a flexible itinerary. Take things one day - and one activity - at a time.

Ensure plenty of time for rest and relaxation!

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