Many people have taken a road trip at one point in their life, but once you get older, they’re not always as simple as just jumping in the car and leaving. In fact, car rides can be extremely uncomfortable for older people. With that said, you should think twice before taking your elderly parents or grandparents on a long-distance road trip. Before you leave, check out these helpful things to consider when traveling long-distance with seniors.
Take the Necessary Preparations
As you already know, you may have to do more preparations for the trip if you have a senior coming along for the ride. Along with their clothes and personal items, they may need a variety of medications and other medical equipment to keep them healthy and comfortable. If you’re unsure where to start and are concerned about accommodating their needs while on the road, it may be helpful to look into when to use non-emergency medical transport services instead of driving them yourself.
Ensure They’re Comfortable
Comfort is key when it comes to riding in the car, especially for older people. They may feel stiff or be in pain after sitting too long, but you should always ensure they’re comfortable for the duration of the trip. Whether you have to adjust the temperature or switch seats with them, you should make their comfort your main priority.
Consider Their Entertainment
Long road trips can be boring, which is why you should plan some entertainment in advance to avoid excessive boredom. Although your elderly loved one may sleep for part of the trip, you should offer them a book, magazine, crossword puzzle, or another game to keep them occupied for an extended period. If they enjoy listening to music, be sure to have a few CDs handy or ensure your streaming service carries their favorite genre.
Take Lots of Breaks
You may like to make as few stops as possible while on your trip, but that won’t always be an option when traveling with an older person. They may need to use the restroom more frequently than you, and they will also need to move and stretch at least once every few hours. These stops may mean it takes a little longer to arrive at your destination, but they’re incredibly important to make the trip as enjoyable as possible for everyone involved.
With these things to consider when traveling long-distance with seniors, you’ll be ready to take a road trip with your loved ones. Although traveling by car isn’t always the best option, it can work for many older people as long as you do everything you can to prioritize their comfort, medical needs, entertainment, and safety.
