1. Choose a single destination and try to minimize the time spent traveling, such as choosing a nonstop flight.

2. Ensure that your person with dementia has an identification bracelet or necklace in order to be connected back to you should they get separated during your travels.

3. Speak to your person’s physician so that you have calming medication with you in the event of agitation.

4. Pack extras of underwear or adult briefs, clothes, and hygiene supplies.

5. Bring a familiar item, such as a book or stuffed animal, for the person with dementia to hold.

6. Ask someone to accompany you – two is better than one to supervise the person with dementia and to keep track of everything.

7. Call the airline ahead of time to let them know that you need special assistance; this includes boarding early, a wheelchair or other mobility aid, etc.

1. Give yourself plenty of time and arrive early at the airport.

2. Plan to check your luggage so that your hands are free so you can attend to the person with dementia.

3. Have snacks readily available and other types of distractions, such as music, an iPad, a coloring book, etc.

4. Arrange for visiting the bathroom; ask ahead of time if there are “family” bathrooms; it is fine to bring a person of the opposite sex with you into the bathroom even if there is no family bathroom.

5. Bring and give out “companion cards” that explain that your companion has dementia. Give them to anyone you encounter, such as those in the bathroom, or flight attendants.

6. Physical touch may be comforting to your person – you can hold hands or stroke their arm.

1. Consider having one person take the person with dementia straight to the hotel or location where you will be staying while the other person handles baggage claim.

2. Know that the person with dementia may be confused; be reassuring and keep explanations simple.

3. Try to maintain a routine while you are away including wake-up, meals, bedtime, etc.

4. Make sure that the person eats and drinks frequently and always schedule in regular bathroom breaks.

5. It may be nice for the people who are caring for the person with dementia to each have a day to themselves while the other stays with the person, so that each has a small break while on vacation.

6. Don’t feel obligated to do “expected” activities at your destination; pick the ones that best suit you and your person.