Tips for Travel
People with Parkinson’s (and their carers ) do, of course, travel - both for pleasure and business. Sometimes this can present difficulties, but these can usually be overcome with the right planning.
General tips
- Plan your journey so that you have plenty of stops to stretch and go to the toilet
- Carry drinks and snacks to help when taking medication
- Make sure that you have a restful day before travelling and after you have arrived
- Check what facilities are available where you will be staying and book appropriately, e.g. if stairs are a problem, ensure there a lift available
- Before arrival, identify where the nearest hospital and pharmacy are to where you are staying
- If you are significantly immobile or disabled, take a letter of authorisation from your doctor stating that you are fit to travel and detailing your medication
- Ensure that you have plenty of medication, and include some in your hand luggage. For security reasons, always keep medication in its original container. Take more than you need and split it between bags in case one is lost in transit
- Take spare prescriptions, any health insurance policy numbers, and a list of contact numbers for family, doctor and anyone taking care of your home
- Do not try to do too much each day. Allow time for rest and have a flexible schedule, as every day tasks, such as dressing and eating, may take longer away from your usual surroundings.
Did you know?
The hammock dates back some 1000 years to the Mayan Indians in Central America. The earliest hammocks were first woven from the bark of the Hamak tree, then replaced by the fibres from the sisal plant {similar in looks to an Aloe Vera plant} as they could be softened by rubbing them against the thigh. Cotton has been used for the last 50 - 60 years.
Carer or caregiver
Terms used to describe people who look after or provide support, voluntarily and without payment, to relatives, partners or friends who are ill, aged or disabled.
See section on Carers.
