A dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean a person has to stop travelling. In fact, there are many benefits of this, including mental stimulation, the creation of shared memories, and reconnection with identity.
However, some families feel daunted by the idea of taking their loved one on holiday. Today, we’ll explore the best holiday options for people with dementia and how travelling care helps.
Benefits of going on holiday for people with dementia
There are several benefits of a well-planned holiday for individuals with dementia, including:
Stimulation through new experiences
A holiday brings opportunities to enjoy new and stimulating activities, such as talking to new people, experiencing different cultures and joining in with unique traditions. These can build your loved one’s confidence and help them try new things they wouldn’t do at home.
Create shared memories
Holidays give families the opportunity to create memories that can be cherished forever. Some people find that their relationship with their loved one gets better after a shared holiday, especially if they’re struggling with the transition to family caregiver.
Reminiscence of past holidays
Travelling with loved ones can resurface old memories of past holidays. This can help a person living with dementia reminisce about places they used to love visiting.
Reconnect with important aspects of identity
Visiting a familiar country or place can help individuals reconnect with their cultural identity. For example, if they grew up speaking a different first language, they may benefit from visiting a place where that language is commonly used.
Engaging in mindful activities
Going on holiday gives people the opportunity to enjoy activities they may not usually get to experience at home. Spending time in nature can boost mood in people affected by dementia, and new sensory experiences may help them feel more present and connected to the world around them.
How to plan a holiday for someone with dementia
How successful a holiday with a person living with dementia will be often depends on how well you plan it. The most important thing to consider is how your loved one manages the condition and whether it affects their day-to-day life.
Before booking a trip, we recommend considering:
Length of stay
Shorter trips are often better for individuals living with dementia. Symptoms such as memory problems and concentration difficulties can be exacerbated by the stress and exhaustion of longer trips.
Destination
Some people with dementia may feel more comfortable in a location they’ve already visited. This might also bring back fond memories and opportunities to reminisce with loved ones without becoming overwhelming.
Transportation options
Research types of transport available in any location you’re considering. Hiring a car may be the best option for individuals living with dementia, as they don’t have to wait in crowded terminals or stations.
Some countries offer dementia-friendly transport, which is designed to be safe, well signposted and easy for people with memory loss to use.
Planned activities
Consider what hobbies your loved one enjoys and used to enjoy, and see if it’s possible to shape their holiday around them.
For example, if they used to go camping regularly, you could consider booking a night in a yurt or cabin. They could still enjoy the camping experience while being surrounded by accessible facilities.
Travel companionship
It’s common to be concerned about taking a loved one with dementia on holiday, especially if they experience symptoms like sundowning or wandering. A travel companion can help ease the load, ensuring the family remains confident throughout their travels.
To learn more about travelling with loved ones, read our helpful guide on 7 travel tips for the elderly.
Best types of holidays for people with dementia
If you’re considering booking a holiday but don’t know where to start, here are some dementia-friendly ideas to help you plan:
Staycations
Staying close to home reduces travel stress and keeps familiar surroundings within easy reach, helping people with dementia feel more confident and comfortable.
Seaside breaks
Gentle walks, fresh air and a peaceful setting can be calming for people living with dementia. Many coastal towns offer accessible facilities and a slower pace.
Cruises
Cruises allow your loved one to see a range of destinations without repeated transfers. If your loved one used to enjoy cruises before their diagnosis, there are plenty of dementia-friendly itineraries to consider.
Countryside retreats
Quiet rural locations offer a relaxing environment with opportunities to enjoy nature away from busy crowds and unfamiliar noise.
Lodge or cottage holidays
Self-catered accommodation offers a quieter, more home-like environment where daily routines can be maintained more easily.
Should I book a travelling carer?
If you’re concerned about taking your loved one on holiday without professional assistance, a travelling carer can help put your mind at ease. Many families want to continue making memories together, but worry about the practicalities of travelling with a loved one living with dementia.
A travel companion can provide one-to-one support throughout busy travel days and the holiday itself, ensuring the person with dementia is cared for while family members can relax and enjoy time together.
How can a travel carer help someone with dementia?
There are several ways a travel companion can assist your loved one during their holiday, such as:
- Reassurance during travel – Whether you’re travelling by plane, car or train, a travel companion can offer calm, familiar support throughout the journey, helping reduce anxiety in unfamiliar environments.
- Support daily routines – Maintaining familiar routines around mealtimes, medication and personal hygiene can help a person with dementia feel more settled while away from home.
- Encourage independence – Rather than taking over, a travel companion provides as much or as little support as needed, helping your loved one continue enjoying their holiday in their own way.
- Peace of mind for families – You can spend quality time together without feeling solely responsible for every aspect of your loved one’s care, helping everyone to relax, make the most of the trip and return home with positive memories.
- Quick, professional response if plans change – Some holiday plans may not go the way you envisioned. If your loved one becomes tired, confused or needs a quieter moment, an experienced companion can adapt to the situation while keeping the day enjoyable.
Talk to our dedicated team of experts today
The standards set by Patricia White over 35 years ago still remain today. Call our experienced team on 01293 224708 to discuss your live-in care needs and receive a free, no-obligation quotation.
Or feel free to send us a message using our online enquiry form and a member of our expert care team will get back to you as soon as possible, typically within 24 hours.
