Road trip!

Simplify trips with older loved ones

By Lisa M. Petsche

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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

• Set realistic expectations. Consider your loved one’s needs and limitations.
• 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 up 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!

Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in health and elder care issues.