Whether the distance is long or short, traveling can be a challenge for seniors. There are often multiple complications that need to be considered beforehand, such as the implications of sitting for an extended period of time and potential problems with incontinence.
Planning ahead can play a large role in making travel more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone involved. This includes thinking about potential issues that may arise, including those that are unlikely.
Adaptive aids are another key area. There are many inexpensive products that dramatically change the traveling experience. Even just a few of these can make the process much more enjoyable.
Traveling by Car
Car handles and handy bars (like the one pictured below) can make a large difference in car travel. They’re simple devices that can be slotted into the car door latch. They provide leverage, making it much easier for people to get in and out of a car.
The portable style also means that the senior (or caregiver) can take the item with them from one vehicle to the next. That’s perfect for traveling, as you may not be taking your own car all of the time.
- Other items can help with leverage too, such as safety handles that can be attached to the door frame or hand grips that attach to headrests.
- Swivel cushions (like this one) can be surprisingly powerful. They allow seniors to swivel around, rather than trying to lift their legs into the car. The seats are designed to sit flat, so you will need to measure if your car has bucket seats. You can also use a towel to account for the gap.
Traveling by Plane
Airplane travel can be uncomfortable and stressful at the best of times. This can be even more difficult for seniors and people with disabilities. The right tools can make traveling less difficult and much more enjoyable.
- A neck support pillow makes sitting in a seat much easier. Traditional designs are easy to find online or at local stores. There are also alternative types of pillows that can be as effective, if not more so.
- You can even find airplane seatbelt extenders, ones that have been approved by the FAA. These are designed to safely provide extra seatbelt length, making the plane journey safer and more comfortable.
- Simple travel footrests are surprisingly effective. They can make sitting much more comfortable and reduce the risk of swelling.
- Sleep masks are a simple way to help people sleep on long flights. This particular design is effective and inexpensive. It even comes with earplugs.
- Compression socks can significantly help with plane travel by improving circulation and reducing the risk of any health issues.
Walking
Regardless of how you’re traveling, anything that makes walking easier is desirable. Many seniors struggle to walk over significant distances. Others may find standing difficult. There are many cases where walking and standing will be necessary, such as in customs lines.
The list below highlights various products that can be useful.
- Folding canes are extremely handy. They’re much more portable than a conventional cane, while still offering most of the same benefits. Many of them are also inexpensive, like this option here.
- Other canes can convert into simple folding chairs. The style typically has a weight capacity of around 250 lbs, so the idea won’t suit everyone. Still, this type of product provides assistance for walking, while also giving seniors a place to sit when needed.
- Many seniors rely on walkers to improve mobility. A folding walker is much easier to bring in the car and still provides the support that is needed.
Other Travel Items
Travel aids aren’t just the items that are used during a plane, train or car ride. They’re also what is needed on the other end, such as at a hotel. The items below are all types that can be useful in some situations. If nothing else, they’re worth considering.
- Disposable waterproof mattress pads can make incontinence much less embarrassing, especially when away from home. One good trick is to choose products that are the same size as the bed that will be used. Packing tape can help to seal any edges. The entire pad can just be disposed of the next morning.
- Shower benches are another viable approach. Most are too bulky for traveling, but there are some portable alternatives that can work well.
- Medication management products are also essential. This type of device makes it easy to keep track of medication, especially when seniors take multiple medications each day.
- Foldable support rails can make it easier to rise from a seated position. The tools can also be small enough to be taken with you on a vacation without too much hassle.
Of course, we’re just scratching the surface with these areas. There are plenty of other types of adaptive aids that can help with traveling and with day-to-day life.
One of the best approaches is to take a step back and look at your situation.
- What areas does your family member struggle in the most?
- Which ones could be improved upon?
Once you have some angles in mind, it should be easy to think about possible products that may be useful.
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