Changes in elderly people’s abilities can happen quickly, and families may not always realise how much their needs have changed. “Things like she used to be able to climb all the stairs but now she battles with that; we forget to take that into account when we travel,” said Neil Pelser, Retire at Home CEO.

They have a routine and medication needs to be taken at certain points, they need to rest sometimes. People don’t know that routine by heart which is a bit of a problem.

“Navigating crowds and new infrastructure, like a confusing hotel layout, busy airports, that might overwhelm them, might cause extra stress, which can lead to other symptoms.”

Stamina and fatigue are also important considerations, as elderly people may no longer be able to walk long distances or manage activities they previously handled with ease.

Precautions that people can take, is to ask the medical team that is taking care of the residents in a retired home because they know their capabilities. If people don’t have that, they can always speak to a physician and ask them what to do, said Pelser.

“What you can do for yourself is to get some mobility aids, such as a walker or Zimmer frame, but also take accessibility into account when booking hotel accommodation. You might have to forgo the beautiful view in favour of a room that is easier to access.

Neil Pelser, Retire at Home CEO. Photo supplied

“Plan plenty of rest stops during your trip, stop regularly, stretch and allow enough breaks between activities.”

Families can arrange temporary care through a professional care company or hire a caregiver privately when their regular caregiver takes leave during the festive season.

Use a care company where caregivers are supervised by a registered nurse. A proper handover between the regular caregiver and the temporary replacement is also essential to ensure continuity of care.

Pelser advises families to involve elderly relatives in festive-season planning and make them feel included rather than like a burden. “Provide a quiet space where they can rest if they feel overwhelmed, seat them with people they can engage with, and look out for signs of stress or sensory overload.”

Families should plan ahead by anticipating their elderly relatives’ needs, ensuring they have enough food, water, snacks and medication during the journey.

Testing their ability to manage a trip through a short outing beforehand and identifying nearby doctors, hospitals and pharmacies at their destination. Families should be realistic about whether travelling is suitable and consider staying home if necessary.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

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