Should People with Dementia Go on Holidays?

Yes, people with dementia can go on holidays, although it is often suggested that this is more suitable for individuals in the earlier stages of dementia. Holidays can be an enriching experience but may need careful planning to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. It’s beneficial if they can be accompanied by a carer or relative.

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Benefits of Holidays for People with Dementia

Taking a holiday can be an enriching and mood-enhancing experience for people with dementia. It is well-known that planning, anticipating, and eventually enjoying the holiday can have significant psychological benefits. Moreover, the positive impact of engaging with nature, enjoying stimulating activities, and connecting with family members can be immense. In essence, holidays can provide a much-needed respite from the routine, acting as a potent antidote against the stresses of daily life.

How to Plan the Holiday

Planning is paramount when preparing to take a person with dementia on holiday. Therefore, the destination, accommodation, itinerary, and travel logistics should be tailored to the specific needs and abilities of the dementia patient Holiday destinations for elderly people. Purposely, the preparation can involve:

Choosing an Appropriate Destination

When considering where to go, consider the person’s physical ability, cognitive status, and interests. The destination should be familiar to reduce disorientation. It should also be relatively calm and peaceful, as people with dementia can get stressed in busy or noisy environments. Where can I take an old person on holiday in the UK?.

Arranging Suitable Accommodation

The accommodation should be secure, comfortable, and as close as possible to the individual’s regular home environment. If this isn’t possible, consider dementia-friendly holidays that have facilities suited to the person’s needs Dementia Friendly Holidays.

Preparing a Flexible Itinerary

The itinerary should be kept flexible, and activities should be chosen based on the person’s abilities and interests. Crucially, care should be taken not to overload the person with too many activities in a single day.

Organising Travel Logistics

For people with dementia, travel can be stressful as the changes can trigger anxiety and confusion. So, it would be ideal to choose the most comfortable and familiar travel mode.

Going on Holiday with a Carer or Relative

Going on holiday with a dementia patient may imply a need for constant supervision and support. A trusted carer is highly recommended to accompany them during the journey and the vacation. See our article – Can you take a carer on holiday with you?.

A carer familiar with the person’s routines, preferences, and behaviours can provide emotional comfort and ensure their safety during the trip. They can also manage potential emergencies or illnesses. Having a carer could make the holiday more enjoyable for the person with dementia as they have a familiar face with them, offering support and companionship.

Suitable Holiday Activities

Keeping the person active and engaged can significantly contribute to a successful holiday. Therefore, choosing activities that the person with dementia can enjoy is crucial. Those activities could range from enjoying nature walks, bird watching, painting, gardening, or even participating in local cultural activities.

Some Considerations for Cruise Holidays

Cruise holidays can also be an option for people with dementia. Some cruise lines offer well-equipped facilities to meet the specific needs of dementia patients. See our full article – Should a person with dementia go on a cruise?.

However, these might not be suitable for everyone. The unfamiliar environment, large crowds, and the constant movement of the ship could cause disorientation and increase the risk of falls. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider these factors and consult with a healthcare professional before planning a cruise holiday.

In Conclusion

Holidays can be a pleasant and enriching experience for people with dementia, offering them a break from routine and an opportunity for stimulation and social engagement. However, considerate planning, the right support, and a careful choice of destination and activities are prerequisites for a safe and enjoyable break. It’s crucial always to view the trip from the perspective of the person with dementia and shape the experience around their comfort and enjoyment. You won’t regret the extra attention and time spent when you see the happiness on your loved one’s face during the holiday.