By Debbie Gardner
debbieg@thereminder.com
Sharon Ashton spearheaded the development of the "Travel with Care" division at Home Health Solutions, a Holyoke-based business that has been providing home care solutions for elders in the region for 15 years. Designed with the needs of mature travelers in mind, "Travel with Care" provides services that can help individuals overcome age and illness -related obstacles that impact their love of travel.
For this month’s column, Ashton graciously shared with PRIME insights she's gleaned while helping "Travel With Care" clients plan their getaways:
Q: How do the preparations for traveling need to change as we age?
Traveling can be daunting under the best circumstances, but for elders, those with disabilities, or those recovering or rehabilitating from an illness or injury, it can seem particularly overwhelming or unmanageable. Packing, getting to and through the airport, long lines and waiting can be challenging for anyone, so planning well in advance can reduce some of these tasks. Often elders requiring devices such as wheelchairs, oxygen or walkers will simply stop traveling, however airlines do a wonderful job of having these items readily available. People with diabetes or special diets often feel they will not be able to get the foods and nutrition they are accustomed to, but many resorts and cruise lines now serve healthy diets to accommodate these needs, and many cruise lines offer dialysis. Some illness will require a great deal of care, assisting with bathing, dressing, and toileting is very personal, but this should not be the deciding factor in making a vacation plans. Having a personal care aide as part of the vacation can reduce stress and frustration. Their skills and knowledge will be an asset to a hassle free memorable vacation. Be prepared to expect the unexpected.
Q: How can we – and our travel companions – adapt to handle these changes?
Start planning early. The travel industry has made many improvements over the past years to accommodate individuals with handicaps and disabilities. There are also trips designed specifically for the older generation. Your loved one may not be mobile without a wheelchair, or they may have a specific health condition such as Alzheimer’s, diabetes requiring insulin management, incontinence concerns, oxygen therapy, pacemaker or other medical devices, transfer assistance or heart problems; any of these can make vacationing much more complex. Planning ahead and using intervention management for these health conditions will lead to a successful vacation. The first step that we can take to adapt to the changes of aging is a positive attitude; you can do it, you can get away and make memories, it just takes a little more planning.
Set a comfortable pace: Keep in mind each family member's individual preferences for waking hours, activity schedules, dress, dining options, nightlife, and needs for sleep and plan accordingly. Remember the travel/vacationing industry wants people to travel so they have modifications in place.
Q: Any tips for individuals planning for multigenerational traveling?
Multigenerational vacations can be rewarding for the whole family. Choose a destination that works for everyone. All-inclusive resorts are a good choice, but be cautious of over scheduling the daily itinerary. Spending some fun time with the grandchildren and family making memories is very fulfilling for the whole family. Be realistic, the point to remember is that you have people on both ends of the age spectrum and to be able to meet all their needs. Be sure to schedule some time apart. Send post cards home to the kids so when they return they have some souvenirs from the vacation. Plan time for grandparents to do the activities they can and time for the grandkids to enjoy their activities, also make sure to have events for the whole family. Regrouping at the end of the day and sharing your stories over dinner is great fun. Take lots of pictures and videos and when you return home continue the memories by making a scrapbook together. Most of all relax and enjoy the family time.
