Vacations are supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable. You save your money and plan for months ensuring that every last detail is attended to. When you arrive at your destination, you want to see the sights and enjoy yourself. But sometimes that can be difficult if you are taking a vacation with an elderly parent or relative. Let’s face it, you do not want to be the Griswold family in “Vacation” with Aunt Edna back-seat driving. Fortunately, it a little due diligence beforehand, you can travel with a senior and enjoy yourself at the same time.
Accommodations
Most hotels are equipped to handle customers with special needs these days. To be safe, ask if the room is accessible to the elderly and equipped with handicapped bars in the bathrooms. Ask for a room close to the elevator or even on the first floor so you don’t have to do a lot of walking. If your parent wants a room to herself, ask for adjoining rooms so you are close by in case of emergency. Check the room before going out for the day to make sure your parent does not leave medication or valuables in plain view around the room.
Restaurants
It might be safer to stick to a routine when traveling with an elderly person. Some seniors like to eat early so you might want to indulge them and have a late lunch or early supper. Stick to the foods that are familiar to them and keep portion sizes in mind. Some elderly people cannot eat a huge meal so stick to an appetizer or a smaller meal such as soup and a half sandwich.
Medication/Safety
Call ahead to the hotel if you need a refrigerator in the room for medication. Some hotels will not charge for this amenity if it is solely for medication that needs to be kept cold such as insulin. Find the location of the nearest hospital and pharmacy in advance and make sure you add your parent’s doctor to your contact list in your phone. Be mindful of any medication that needs to be taken with food and crackers and juice boxes so you are covered.
Things to Do
It’s tough to get a senior person around for long periods of time particularly if they have limited mobility. Try to book a Foliage Tour on a bus or even scout out a route where you can take the senior by car to see the trees or views of the mountain. Some areas have harbor cruises and you can sit inside or outside and a narrated guide will provide you with information about the area. You may not able to do a lot of walking with you are with someone elderly. If you do want to take them out and about, plan for frequent breaks to sit and rest. Some popular venues will have wheelchairs or motorized scooters that you can rent. Seniors seem to enjoy scooters much more than wheelchairs. That way, your parent can enjoy the activities without enduring physical discomfort.
The author has travelled extensively with and without his parents, and can’t wait to get back to the west coast and his favorite things to do in Mukilteo Washington!