How to Reduce Travel Stress for the Elderly

How to Reduce Travel Stress for the Elderly

How to Reduce Travel Stress for the Elderly

People like to travel because it’s enjoyable and relaxing, but unfortunately that’s not always the case for everyone. Older travelers might especially feel anxious if things don’t go as planned, which is why finding ways to reduce travel stress for the elderly is so important.

These senior stress reduction tips are designed for traveling seniors or their loved ones who plan to travel with them or help with travel arrangements. Keep in mind that in addition to these tips, it’s also possible to get air travel assistance for seniors through non-emergency medical transport companies such as Flying Angels. Age, illness or disability should not become a barrier that prevents people from enjoying travel.

What is Air Travel Assistance for Seniors?

Senior Stress Reduction Travel Tips

For those looking to improve air travel for seniors, it’s helpful to break down each trip into three main sections. As you start to consider all the details of reducing travel stress for elderly travelers, these provide some guidance.

Before the Trip

Most of the work that result in reduced stress on a trip happens before you ever leave the house.

  • Consider delaying a trip if the travelers recently experienced an emotionally or physically taxing event, such as a death, divorce or major medical procedure. Those type of events can cause stress for travelers.
  • If the seniors involved have chronic medical conditions, ensure they consult with their physician before their trip and get medical clearance to travel.
  • Set up transportation to the airport from home and from the airport to the final destination (usually a hotel) before leaving home.
  • Call ahead to both airports and arrange any assistance you need getting from check in, through security and to the gate.
  • Use Google maps to become familiar with your destination. Knowing your way around will reduce stress once you arrive.
  • Book non-stop flights even if it costs a bit more. Changing planes and making your way through a third airport is a surefire way to increase travel stress

Medical Travel Resources

During the Trip

Keep these tips in mind to help improve air travel for seniors.

  • Pack the night before and have everything ready so you can leave and get to the airport early (a rule of thumb is to arrive about two hours before your plane departs). It’s much easier to wait comfortably at the gate than rush through a crowd.
  • If seniors are traveling without companions, start a routine from the first day where they check in with family members via text or phone call. 
  • Bring something to read. An underrated way to cut out the noise and confusion around you – and avoid talking to strangers if you don’t want to – is to bring a good book or magazine, whatever you prefer to read. Time will fly by faster and reading helps people relax.
  • Pack all medications and important items in a carry-on bag. Don’t put them in checked baggage and run the risk of the airlines sending them somewhere else (a rare occurrence, but it happens).
  • Get a seat on the plane that allows for easy access to the bathroom. Board early if necessary.
  • Talk time to stretch your legs and walk a bit before boarding. Physical activity can help people feel more relaxed.

What is a Medical Travel Companion?

At the Destination

The destination is the reason people travel. However, a new city or unfamiliar country can cause stress, especially for seniors accustomed to their home routine. Once they are at their destination, these tips can help.

  • Start a vacation routine. Make time to simply sit and enjoy the day, read, or take a walk. Find a good place to have breakfast each day that is comfortable and relaxed.
  • Make a set time each day to contact loved ones and talk to them, letting them know how you are doing and what you’ve experienced.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and don’t overdo it. Dress to be active but plan each day with only enough “things to do” that you can easily accomplish. Vacation is not a time to “push yourself.”

Once back at home, it’s also important to not schedule too many activities for the first few days. Allow yourself some time to rest up after your trip is over.

It’s possible to reduce travel stress for the elderly if you take it seriously and plan ahead. These tips give you a good place to start and a better chance of having a relaxing, enjoyable travel experience.

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How to Travel With A Guide Dog

How to Travel With A Guide Dog

For those who need to travel with a guide dog, getting through the airport and boarding a plane can seem a daunting task. However, there are animal airport disability assistance services available that can help you through the experience, as well as personnel at the airport who are trained to support those with a guide dog.

In the modern world, the need to travel with a guide dog should not keep people from taking a trip they need or want to take. Keep the following steps in mind to ensure that your trip goes well.

Plan Ahead

Organizations such as the Guide Dog Foundation, Inc. will provide demonstrations and practices of what to expect at airport security, so you and your guide dog are fully prepared and confident during the real thing. If you contact TSA Cares 72 hours before a flight, they will also provide you with information on what to expect. TSA Cares can also coordinate a passenger support specialist to help you through the airport.

Picking a Good Day

Early morning flights are often best because they experience the fewest delays. Traveling on Friday can present more challenges as that is most often the busiest day at an airport. Saturdays are usually the lightest day for travel.

Packing for Your Trip

Remember to put your travel-sized liquids in a quart-sized bag, and make sure any electronics larger than a cell phone are easily accessible so you can remove them during screening. Liquids over 3.4 ounces are not allowed through airport security, unless said liquid is medically necessary, though you will have to declare this to the TSA agents at the screening for inspection.

Pack For Your Guide Dog

Make sure to pack a small emergency-size kit for your guide dog. This should include items such as medicine for an upset stomach, hand wipes and paper towels.

Mapping Out the Airports

When you travel with a guide dog, look up the airports you are going to be in to find the pet-friendly, animal airport areas where you can sit and wait in case there is a flight delay. The website Pet-Friendly Travels provides such a list. Also look for the location of bathrooms, places where you can water or other items, etc.

Packing Dog Meals

Make sure to pack pre-measured meals for your guide dog. They are not prohibited and can be put into resealable plastic bags in your luggage. Make sure to bring a small amount of food and whatever treats are appropriate for your dog in the case of lengthy delays at the airport or on the plane. 

Reserve a Seat

Contact the airline at least one day before departure – the earlier, the better – to secure the seat you need for you and your guide dog. Some prefer to sit against the bulkhead. Airlines that do not allow you to purchase a seat location in advance will allow you to pre-board before the other passengers. Dogs can sit anywhere, as long as no part of their body is in the aisle. In some cases, you may have to ask a fellow traveler to share some of their foot space with your dog – an airline representative can help you in this situation.

Going Through Screening

There is no point during screening at which you will be separated from your guide dog or required to remove your dog’s harness and leash, though your dog may have to go through additional screening if you leave these items on. You will have to remove your jacket, belt, and shoes (unless you have TSA Pre-Check). If you are unable to do so, you will go through additional screening. You may also have to walk through a metal detector or receive a pat-down.

Pat-Down Checks

The pat-down will always be conducted by an officer of the same gender as your present, and they will walk you through the process beforehand. They will ask for permission before touching your guide dog, and you can always request a private screening with a companion of your choice or ask that the officer use a new pair of gloves.

Advocate and Ask for Help

Do not hesitate to ask airport workers, airplane personnel and even fellow passengers for assistance, if needed. Under federal law, airports and airlines must provide accommodations for those with disabilities. And fellow passengers are often far more helpful than you might expect! Also, ask to speak with an airline representative who is designated to work with those who have disabilities if you run into any difficulties anywhere along the process. These are some tips to review before you travel with a guide dog. With the help of those at the airport and your own preparation, it’s a process that can and should go smoothly as the world gets better at supporting those who are differently abled.

Success Stories: Real-Life Cases of Flying Angels in Action

Success Stories: Real-Life Cases of Flying Angels in Action

Success Stories

Flying Angels provides its clients with flight nurses and flight coordinators who rank among the best in the non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) industry. They understand how to provide clients with the safety, security and peace of mind of having expert medical care and travel support.

People can benefit from the many different services provided by Flying Angels, including long distance medical transport on commercial airlines, hospital discharge transportation, and senior relocation services. Flying Angels specializes in the expert medical care and flight coordination that make every journey safe and much less stressful.

What Is NEMT?

The NEMT services provided by Flying Angels involve flight coordinators who make all the arrangements for the journey and a flight nurse who accompanies clients on the flight. They plan ahead with commercial airlines and airports, making any arrangements needed to clear obstacles patients might encounter during their trip.

People in a wide variety of situations use NEMT services. They include the following.

  • People who recently suffered an injury and want assistance while flying
  • Those who have had a medical procedure and require medical support during travel
  • Those with a chronic condition or illness that makes traveling alone difficult
  • Families who want a nurse to travel with older family members when they relocate to a new home

A flight nurse provides care during the journey and offers clients and their families the security of having a trained nurse as a flight companion. 

Examples of Flying Angels in Action

The following offers a synopsis of several success stories involving Flying Angels providing NEMT services. You can read more details about each case on this page of case examples.

Caitlin and Emma

Caitlin had been assisting her mother, Emma, in relocating from her condo in a Florida retirement community to an assisted living facility near Ithaca, New York. The move brought Emma, 82, closer to her daughter and grandchildren. Emma manages well on her own, although with diabetes and some mild dementia she now can no longer live alone.

While Caitlin managed all the logistical aspects of the move, she recognized the need for assistance during the flight with Emma. That’s when she reached out to Flying Angels. The flight coordinator took charge of all the arrangements, from booking the flights to finalizing the plans. A flight nurse accompanied Caitlin and Emma on their trip on a commercial airline. 

The flight nurse meticulously tracked Emma’s insulin supply, which she required every four hours, and kept a close watch on her blood sugar levels. Emma eventually slept during the flight, which landed only a few minutes behind schedule. At the airport, Caitlin’s husband and Emma’s twin grandchildren greeted them. Caitlin took comfort that experts at Flying Angels handled the flight, giving her one less thing to worry about.

Rose

After a tragic car accident, Rose lost the ability to move, becoming a quadriplegic before she ever learned to drive. However, with the support of Flying Angels, Rose can fly. She recently flew from a hospital in Kansas to a rehabilitation hospital in Colorado. Her caseworker called in Flying Angels to take care of the trip, taking the burden off of Rose’s parents.

Kim, the flight nurse, traveled with Rose, starting with picking her up in a wheelchair van, transporting her to the airport, and working with airline staff to get Rose comfortably on the plane. Kim monitored Rose’s vital signs throughout the journey and moved her every quarter of an hour. She also fed Rose her meals and ensured she drank enough fluids. She arrived safely, and her parents hope the rehabilitation therapy will improve her life.

Carl

Carl required Flying Angels’ services after he suffered a heart attack while biking through the Pyrenees in Spain with a group of college friends. His friends got him to a cafe where they could call an ambulance. Eventually, his doctor back in the United States recommended a clinic in Cleveland for him to go to for rehabilitation. The clinic recommended he get transported by Flying Angels.

As with every case, the flight coordinator took over, managing all the arrangements to get Carl back to the U.S. from Spain. Flight coordinators are also experienced in handling last-minute complications. In the case of Carl, it required getting a new connecting flight after the first flight was diverted due to lightning. Flying Angels got Carl to Cleveland a little late, but well in time to start the road toward recovery.

These success stories, just three of thousands, provide examples of how Flying Angels helps its clients every day. They provide world-class NEMT services that provide people with the medical care and travel support they need to ensure a worry-free medical transport experience.

Long-Distance Caregiving: Supporting Aging Parents from Afar

Long-Distance Caregiving: Supporting Aging Parents from Afar

long distance caregiving

As parents age, their families face challenges in providing them with care, especially if they live far away. Long-distance caregiving can overcome the difficulties caused by great distances through careful planning, effective communication, and the wise use of available resources.

It’s also important to remember that families of aging parents are not alone. Organizations such as Aging Life Care Association can provide assistance in connecting families with the care they need for their parents. Non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies also provide valuable services, booking travel accommodations for elderly parents and also providing specially trained flight nurses to travel with them.

Common Issues When Supporting Aging Parents From Afar

Adult children face a variety of issues when providing long-distance caregiving to elderly parents. However, they can better address those issues if they consider the following common challenges and potential solutions.

Communication and Coordination: Facilitating Caregiving Efforts

Maintaining open and regular communication with aging parents is crucial for long-distance caregiving. Regular phone calls or video chats allow you to check in on your parents’ well-being, as well as get a detailed understanding of their daily routines. By practicing active listening and offering emotional support, you can make them cared for while also identifying any areas of concern. Communication also keeps you informed about their health, medical appointments, and any changes in their medication or treatment plans.

Establish a Local Support Network

Reach out to friends, neighbors, and other family members who live close to your aging parents. They can help you establish a support network that helps you monitor what is happening with your parents, as well as assist with transportation, grocery shopping, home maintenance, and even companionship. Building a network of trusted individuals ensures your parents have someone nearby who can respond to emergencies or provide assistance when needed.

Financial and Legal Considerations: Navigating Responsibilities

Helping your aging parents organize legal and financial affairs can provide both them and you with valuable peace of mind. Encourage your parents to create or update essential financial and legal documents, including wills, investment portfolios, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives from physicians. Familiarize yourself with their financial accounts, insurance policies, and retirement plans. Consider consulting with a professional, such as an elder law attorney or financial advisor, to navigate legal and financial complexities. Having a clear understanding of their wishes and being prepared can alleviate stress and ensure better decision-making in the future.

Arrange Visits and Plan Quality Time

Schedule regular visits to spend quality time with aging parents. These visits are not only an opportunity to provide hands-on care but also a chance to create lasting memories. Plan activities that your parents enjoy and cherish, such as going for walks, sharing meals, or engaging in hobbies. These moments strengthen your bond and show your commitment to their well-being. During visits, assess their living conditions, address any safety concerns, and make necessary adjustments to enhance their comfort and security.

Emotional Support and Self-Care: Caring for Yourself while Caring for Others

Providing long-distance caregiving to parents is rewarding, but it can also take a physical and emotional toll. It’s crucial for caregivers to prioritize their own self-care. Taking care of oneself while caring for aging parents is not selfish, Rather, it’s an essential step to take for maintaining overall well-being and providing the best possible care. 

Because it’s a long-distance situation, caring for aging parents can evoke a wide range of emotions, including stress, sadness, guilt, and frustration. It’s crucial to acknowledge and process these emotions. It’s also key to take time to engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, such as talking to a supportive friend, journaling, or seeking professional counseling.

Supporting aging parents from afar requires thoughtful planning, effective communication, and the use of available resources. With long-distance caregiving that focuses on dedication and proactive caregiving, adult children can make a positive difference in their aging parents’ lives.

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