As the summer approaches, families are eagerly planning day trips and holidays to make the most of the school holidays. This sentiment holds true for the estimated 7,900 people living with dementia in Wiltshire, who can also benefit greatly from well-planned and inclusive vacations.
The Alzheimer’s Society emphasises the positive impact of holidays on the wellbeing of individuals affected by dementia. Such trips provide opportunities for new experiences and shared moments with loved ones, fostering a sense of connection and joy.
Kelly Inwood, Wiltshire Regional Manager – Local Services for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Holidays offer people living with dementia the chance to visit new places or revisit somewhere familiar. This can be beneficial as they can reminisce about past holidays, or places they used to live. Visiting family and friends or spending time in a country or place, can also be important to the person’s cultural identity.”
To ensure a relaxing and enjoyable holiday for those with dementia, Kelly offers some valuable guidance:
Talk to the person with dementia: Engage the person with dementia in the holiday planning process. Discuss their preferences and involve them as much as possible to make the trip tailored to their interests and comfort.
Choose an enjoyable destination: Consider the person’s previous experiences and find a destination that holds special significance for them. Familiar places can evoke cherished memories and enhance the overall experience.
Travel insurance: Inform the insurer about the dementia diagnosis and carefully review the policy details to understand the coverage. If necessary, seek assistance from the insurer directly to ensure adequate coverage.
Ensure safety: Since travelling can be disorienting, prepare for any unforeseen circumstances. Provide the person with dementia with identification and a list of emergency contacts to address any potential issues.
Pack familiar items: Bring along items that provide comfort and familiarity, such as beloved photographs, cherished books, or a soothing blanket. Creating a playlist of their favorite songs can also be calming and reassuring during the journey.
Consider your own needs: While supporting a person with dementia on holiday, remember to take care of your own well-being too. Plan for restful moments to ensure everyone enjoys the vacation to the fullest.
The good news is that many organizations and venues, including museums, are becoming more inclusive and dementia-friendly. With over 500 dementia-friendly communities across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, local businesses are committed to supporting customers and employees affected by dementia.
Additionally, several UK airports now offer special assistance for people with hidden disabilities like dementia, making travel more accessible and stress-free.
For further information and advice on dementia and holidays, visit alzheimers.org.uk or contact Alzheimer’s Society’s support line at 0333 150 3456.
