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Traveling With Parkinson's And Dementia/Family Holidays
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭

As my husband's condition has worsened - mostly the dementia - it is difficult to travel. We do go to a beach town we love 90 miles from Chicago several times during the year, but if he unexpectedly goes into "off" time, he can be bear - for example, he wants to go home, is belligerent, etc. He eventually calms down but the trips aren't what they used to be. Since our older daughter got married and moved to Arizona we have traveled there for either Thanksgiving or Christmas for the past 4 years… read more

posted September 12, 2019
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

If you can keep the stress level as low as possible when packing, etc then the physical and mental stress at the airport should not add much extra anxiety to the trip. But I took the first 2 trips I’ve taken alone in 10+ years AFTER I was diagnosed and I didn’t worry about a thing at the airports. They met me at the car door with the wheelchair, had people with me thru security, in the waiting area, down to and onto the plane, and another wheelchair waiting at the plane door when we landed. They were probably the easiest plane trips I have ever taken because you don’t have to worry about getting to gates or when you can board, etc.
But if you’re worried about the trip being physically and/ or mentally hard on her talk to her doctor about what may help with the anxiety. I know that we’re in the age of ‘drugs are bad’, but it certainly might be talking about.

posted September 21, 2019
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

My parents went on one a few years ago and they had giraffes come right up to their lodge window at snack time! If that doesn’t make you feel better then I don’t know what will!

posted September 13, 2019
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I only drive on a good day...that being said; I certainly understand you as a caretaker. I had the chance to take care of my mom who had dementia. The problem with this disease PD is that there is a feeling of being trapped for you and your husband. Can you hire an agency to be with him while you recharge? As far as your husband; He could feel trapped too. He never knows if he can go along for trip, maybe he feels guilty keeping you home. WE never know what each day brings. Please try not feel angst with your children. They will feel your pain someday but aren't ready to commit to the role of helping. Sometimes it takes soul searching for people to do the right thing. Have a blessed day and sending good vibes.

posted September 12, 2019
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

The 2 plane trips I’ve taken since I found out that I have PD have been the only trips I’ve taken alone in 10+ years. One thing that I can say is that I totally trust airlines with my health and care, even when I’ve been unable to walk. But we all know that no vacation is only at an airport. If you are able to get somewhere to rest when needed, then my doctor told me that it’s normally the stress of the travel, not the physical exertion of it that causes the most trouble.
So I’m going to be an optimist and believe that if planned well, then traveling is something that I don’t intend to give up for many, many years.
In fact, for our 25th wedding anniversary in 5 years, we’re going on an African Safari.

posted September 12, 2019
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I feel bad for you @A MyParkinsonsTeam Member. Difficult decisions to be made. I agree with you that the children should take one of the holidays at your house. They should understand that their dad can no longer travel, have some compassion. We have not travelled since it's difficult on my husband. I'm not making my husband's life more difficult than it already is. Good luck.

posted September 12, 2019

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