How to Travel Internationally with Dementia (2024)

Hey everyone!

Did you know that over 10 million families travel internationally each year with a loved one who has dementia? That's a huge number, and it really shows how common this situation is. Traveling can be such a wonderful experience, but when you’re dealing with dementia, it definitely comes with its own set of challenges.

So, welcome to today’s blog where we’re diving into the topic of traveling internationally with dementia. Now, I can’t stress enough how important it is to prepare and understand the needs of your loved one before you embark on your adventure. A little bit of planning can make a world of difference and help ensure that everyone has a smooth journey.

Now, let’s talk about the challenges that families often face when traveling with someone who has dementia. First off, confusion can be a major issue. Airports and train stations can feel overwhelming, and a sudden change in environment can lead to anxiety. You might also find that your loved one needs special accommodations, whether it’s help with mobility or ensuring they have access to familiar routines. It's not uncommon for families to feel a bit lost when faced with these hurdles, but don’t worry, there are ways to tackle them.

Alright, let’s explore some practical tips and strategies for making your travel experience a success. First, planning your itinerary is crucial. Keep it simple—choose destinations that are known for being dementia-friendly, and avoid overly packed schedules. Also, take some rest as our bodies need to adjust to the time zone differences.

Secondly, remember to manage medications and care needs. Create a detailed list of medications, dosages, and schedules to keep everything organized. Lastly, consider bringing along comfort items from home, like a favorite blanket or a photo album, which can provide reassurance during those unfamiliar moments. Baby Love, aka the beloved teddy bear is mom's security and comfort. Baby Love travels everywhere with us. He keeps mom calm during noisy and busy places.

Now, I want to share a touching story that really highlights the power of preparation. There was a daughter whose mother had dementia. She was determined to take mom on a trip to see the Eiffel Tower, a dream she’d always had. They planned their itinerary carefully, chose a hotel close to the sights, and made sure they had easy access to medical care. During the trip, they encountered some challenges, like confusion in crowded areas, but because they had prepared, they managed to navigate it all. They created special moments that they cherished, and the trip turned out to be a beautiful bonding experience. The key lesson here? With the right approach, international travel can be not just possible, but truly memorable.

However, be prepared for an emergency room visit. Know what to do and have an estimate of how much such incident will cost. Planning ahead is key. Also, do leave home without travel insurance especially a package that covers medical. You can learn more about my ER visit in Paris on my YouTube channel: Duchess DJ Love. Here's the link to one of my live streams while there.

To wrap things up, we’ve covered quite a bit today! We talked about the importance of preparation, the challenges you might face, and some solid strategies to help you travel successfully with a loved one who has dementia. It really emphasizes that with careful planning and support, families can enjoy the adventure of travel together.

If you have your own experiences or tips about traveling with dementia, I’d love to hear them! Please share in the comments below. And, if you’re interested in more travel tips and insights, don’t forget to check out my other blogs and videos! Thanks for watching, and happy travels!

Navigating the World: Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia book by Duchess DJ Love

One of the primary challenges in traveling with a dementia loved one is the potential for confusion and disorientation. The unfamiliar environments, new routines, and sensory overload can exacerbate their symptoms, leading to increased anxiety and agitation. It is essential to be aware of their limitations and adapt travel plans accordingly. Selecting destinations that offer a familiar setting or engaging in activities that evoke positive memories can help ease the transition and reduce stress. This book will give you suggestions to ease the confusion and travel smoothly.

Duchess DJ Love travels frequently and takes her mom along on the journey. They go on cross-country trips and fly the friendly skies. Duchess DJ knows how to manage her mother, Lady Lexie, who suffers from dementia. Over the years, Duchess DJ has learned tips and tricks to ease Lady Lexie's confusion and make travel a breeze for everyone.