Summer is in full swing, which means family and friends have officially entered vacation mode. But, for seniors with mobility needs, traveling and vacationing can bring many concerns. When you’re preparing to travel with you senior, there are a lot of variables to consider including accessible transportation, lodging, and other necessary equipment. If you or your loved one is planning a summer vacation, stick to these tips to keep your trip fun and safe for the whole family.

Transportation

There can be many steps to reaching a destination, especially if you’re traveling out of the country. First, make sure you give yourself enough time to plan. Start planning your next excursion between 6-8 months before you expect to travel. When flying, make sure to request a wheelchair and attendant who will escort you or your senior to the airport gate. If you plan on driving, assess your senior’s needs and rent a vehicle that will make them most comfortable. Make sure to have a wheelchair lift, extra cushions, or high seating if needed.

Lodging

Finding a great place to stay is a crucial step in planning a vacation everyone will enjoy. If you choose to stay in a hotel, make sure to confirm with a manager that all needed items will be available. Consider asking about the following items:

• Wheelchair accessible elevators
• Shower and toilet hand bars
• A shower seat, or walk-in shower
• Accessible entrance to the hotel
• Handicap parking
• Well-lit paths
• Wide walk ways to the bed and restrooms

If staying in a hotel isn’t convenient for your group, consider checking out Airbnb. This home-sharing network offers a variety of searchable filters that will make it easy to find a home that will best suit your needs. The site also offers direct communication with the homeowner to ensure that all questions are answered in a timely manner.

Excursions

Most vacations include outdoor or group activities on the beach or in the mountains. Make sure to plan which activities you anticipate on participating in during your stay. Have a conversation with your senior about which activities they feel will be joining in on and brainstorm ways to make them feel more comfortable. This might include making phone calls to staff about accessible parking or wheelchair accessibility.   

Our Carespring Rehabilitation and Healthcare Facilities in Dayton, Cincinnati, and Northern Kentucky love summer! However you decide to celebrate summer, we hope it’s fun and safe for the whole family.