Coping with Holiday Travel
Dear Caregivers,
Human beings are one of the most peripatetic creatures on earth: We love to travel. We’re not quite at the level of the Arctic tern, which flies about 44,000 miles every year — roughly the circumference of the earth — during its annual migration. But we do like to get around, especially during the holidays.
In fact, this holiday season is expected to see record-breaking levels of travel, according to the American Automobile Association, which predicts that more than 120 million people will be hitting the road by auto, airplane, train, and other means during the 2024 holidays.
Unlike the Arctic tern, however, humans are not well adapted to modern travel. If we go too far east or west in our journey, it throws off our circadian clocks, resulting in jet lag. We get stressed from rushing to meet departure deadlines, become angry and frustrated with traffic jams on the highway, and get dehydrated from the low-pressure and low humidity typically found in airplane cabins.
If you are a caregiver for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, the challenges of travelling are even greater: Their disease may contribute to their becoming disoriented, enduring sensory overload in busy places, and having their schedule disrupted.
Despite all these drawbacks we are drawn to traveling during the holidays, because of another hugely salient trait of our species: We are one of the most social creatures on earth. We thrive being around family and friends. In fact, being social is an important predictor of overall health: Research has shown that being social lowers the incidence of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Hanging out with others also reduces stress and anxiety, lowers the level of stress hormones such as cortisol, and has been shown to improve cognitive function.
So yes, travel is something of a mixed blessing! But if you do a little planning ahead and understand the challenges, the resulting time with family and friends is a blessing all its own.
Here’s some advice on traveling during the holidays:
Traveling with Your Loved One:
Travel can be an especially challenging activity for someone suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Still, with careful planning and consideration, you can make the journey safe and comfortable for you and your loved one. Here's how to do it.
The Benefits of Socializing:
People who socially connect with others have improved brain function, such as better memory, and are less likely to develop dementia than those who are more socially isolated. Here are some tips for increasing social engagement.
Traveling with A Loved One with Parkinson’s:
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease should not keep you both from traveling. With some careful planning and following some simple guidelines, you and your loved one can enjoy a stress-free traveling experience. Here’s how.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.”
— Henry Miller
