Travel is a big part of vacationing for many families. Whether you're driving down the street to attend a party for a few hours or flying halfway around the world for weeks, these tips can make the trip easier when traveling with Parkinson's disease.
The most important is medicine. Always have your medications with you and bring extras. My general rule is to bring twice the amount of medication I anticipate needing. Are you away for an afternoon and need to take two doses during that time? Bring four. Traveling out of state for a week? Bring two weeks of medication. And make sure your next dose is in an easy-access pocket so you don't have to dig through your luggage or find your purse when the time comes.
You may want to wear a medical identification bracelet, especially if you are traveling alone. Today they exist in very different styles. Include your health concerns and a contact name and phone number. If you have a deep brain stimulation (DBS), include information about its type and any MRI or X-ray warnings.
Keeping a list of your medications and photos of prescription labels on your phone can also be helpful. You can also program your medical information into an iPhone if you have one, under “emergency information”. For other phones, Google your phone type to learn how to set up your device.
Another key to traveling comfortably is hydration. It always makes you feel better, especially on overheated planes, trains and cars. It's also essential to keep a bottle of water on hand so you can take your medications on time. Medications for Parkinson's disease are most effective when you take them on time. Set an alarm on your phone to help you remember when needed.
Minimize Hassle
Navigating airports and train stations is also a challenge, especially if you have balance problems or gait problems. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Choose a carry-on that crosses your body or a backpack to keep your hands free when moving through crowds.
Print a paper copy of your boarding pass. Pulling your phone out of your bag repeatedly, finding the boarding pass app, turning up the brightness of your screen so the scanner can read it – these things can be a nightmare for someone with tremors or stiffness. It seems like a small thing, but it's one less thing to worry about.
Consider using a wheelchair at the airport. This may be a difficult concession for some of us, but it's a matter of safety, especially if you're a risk of falling. And wouldn't you rather spend your energy with the people at your destination than traveling through distant airport terminals? Simply call your airline in advance or go to its website and select “special services.” They will take care of the arrangements throughout your trip.
If you have a connecting flight, requesting a wheelchair can be particularly helpful as it puts you on the boarding list for assistance, and wheelchair users know the quickest routes through the airport to take you to your connecting door. Don't forget to tip your wheelchair pusher!
If a wheelchair isn't right for you, consider walking with a cane. Even if you don't need it regularly, it gives a visual clue to other travelers that you might be. slow and I need space. You can also use it to hit rude travelers. I'm kidding ! Type of.
If you have implemented a DBS system, the security check can be intimidating. Most DBS patients cannot pass through traditional metal detectors. Some systems are suitable for X-ray screening, but check with your doctor or the device manufacturer. If you are worried, you can always leave the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) knows that you have an implanted neurostimulator and requests a manual palpation.
Finally, if putting on and taking off your shoes is problematic, inform the TSA agent that you need to keep them on for medical reasons and that they help with stability. They will usually let you leave them on, but they may have to take your shoes off.
Traveling, especially during the holidays, is stressful for everyone, especially if you or a loved one has Parkinson's disease. But with a little forethought and planning, you can make the most of your time with family and friends while minimizing hassle.
Note: Parkinson's disease news today is strictly a news and information site about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson's News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to generate discussion about issues related to Parkinson's disease.
