Family travel becomes a little more challenging when some of the travelers are aging and have disabilities to consider. For those older adults or seniors with disabilities or impairments, it’s important to pay attention to the details of the trip, and not try to participate in activities that might be too difficult. And as a loved one, you need to take into consideration all the elements needed for your senior to travel in comfort while receiving the care and assistance they need.
Preparing for the Vacation
Consider a specialized travel agency. There are many travel agencies that provide services for travelers with disabilities and/or special needs. Knowledgeable travel agents can put together an itinerary, advise on hotel accommodations, arrange private transportation, and provide firsthand knowledge of accessible destinations.
If you are planning the trip for your senior, consider what they need to be comfortable and able to perform their normal activities of daily living. This could include safety items like grab bars or shower benches, and sufficient width in doorways for a wheelchair to fit easily. These requirements will need to be present at travel destinations throughout the trip.
Luggage shipping. For seniors with disabilities, luggage can be a challenge to move about and keep track of. Luckily, you can pay for luggage to be shipped directly to the vacation destination. A courier company picks up the luggage at your home and delivers it right to your vacation address.
Consider safe activities for seniors. When planning your itinerary, take into consideration your senior loved one’s level of stamina. For example, if he or she has more energy in the morning than evening, then plan to sightsee earlier in the day, and reserve slower-paced and relaxing activities for the end of the day.
Confirm the state of facilities. When you book a bus, train, or flight, review the company’s policy on accessible travel and available provisions. Is access wide enough for wheelchairs? Do they provide assistance with wheelchairs? Are there other mobility restrictions? Can they accommodate people with hearing and vision disabilities?
Take advantage of discounts. For example, Amtrak offers a 10-percent rail fare discount to adult passengers with a disability. Amtrak also offers a 10-percent discount for persons traveling with a passenger with a disability, as long as the person is capable of assisting the passenger with the disability.
Pack more than enough medical supplies. Be over-prepared when it comes to medications, monitors and all supplies necessary for managing any chronic conditions. Be sure to pack these items in a carry-on bag so you have easy access to them. Consult with your transportation company of choice regarding their policies on specific medical devices, including CPAP machines. It may seem like a lot of work, but it is better to be prepared.
Know airport procedures. Allow for extra time to go through security and customs at an airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provides guidelines for special procedures concerning medications, liquids, supplies and more. You also need to be familiar with what is allowable through customs if you travel internationally.
Caregivers, don’t forget your own needs. Vacations that are too crammed with activities and tight schedules can wear on an accompanying caregiver as well as seniors with disabilities. Some travel agencies offer travel companions on both independent and group tours, which can help ensure that you as the caregiver will get to enjoy your vacation as well.
Destinations Within the United States
METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART (NEW YORK, NEW YORK)
Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest museum in the U.S. and has an entrance suitable for wheelchair users. Caregivers of visitors with disabilities are admitted free.
THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION (WASHINGTON D.C.)
The Smithsonian Institution comprises 17 museums, as well as the National Zoo and cultural centers.
The Smithsonian offers a free visitors guidebook to plan a trip to the nation’s capital, including information on free things to do, attractions, tours, restaurants and hotels.
HANAUMA BAY (OAHU, HAWAII)
Hanauma Bay is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Elderly visitors are encouraged to reach the shore using special beach wheelchairs free of charge. All of the facilities are designed to be fully accessible. There are many package tours available, some equipped with lifts on vans or buses. Summer temperatures in Honolulu range from lows in the mid-70s to highs in the upper 80s.
International Destinations
THE LOUVRE (PARIS, FRANCE)
The Louvre is one of the world’s largest, oldest and most famous museums. Great works of art and antiquities from ancient civilizations can be found there. The Louvre ensures that all visitors can access the museum safely and comfortably. Assistance is available throughout the museum.
SCOTLAND
Scotland offers many holiday opportunities for seniors with disabilities. Visit historic Edinburgh and the seaside town of St. Andrews. There are coach and charter bus tours to the rugged and beautiful Scottish Highlands. Some accommodations include wheel-in showers, wheelchair access, available lifts, grab rails, and shower chairs. Summer temperatures in Edinburgh range from lows in the 50s to highs in the mid-60s.
CRUISES WITH ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS
Royal Caribbean International has some of the roomiest accommodations. The ship “Symphony of the Seas” has 46 accessible cabins, wide staterooms, and bathroom doors with low door sills, ramped thresholds, roll-in showers, grab bars and turning spaces.
Cruises of various lengths are available to hundreds of destinations, including cruises to Europe that travel to Denmark, Spain, the British Isles and France, among other destinations.
Age and disability shouldn’t be an obstacle for anyone to enjoy an amazing vacation! It just takes a little extra planning and research. Be safe, and have a great time!
For more senior summer vacation ideas, follow Bethesda’s caregiver blog.
