How to Travel With a Loved One Who Suffers from Dementia

Planning getaways can be stressful for caregivers traveling with a loved one suffering from dementia. Dementia patients thrive in familiar surroundings and routines. 

Therefore, new environments may overwhelm them regardless of their stage. Nevertheless, enjoying little getaways with proper safe preparations is much possible. These tips will help you to embark on a successful, stress-free journey.

Keep Surroundings Familiar

Traveling to a brand new location can be stressful for loved ones suffering from this condition. Therefore, keeping them as calm as possible while reassuring them everything is okay is essential. You can achieve this by probably bringing familiar items from home, such as a favorite blanket or pillow, which makes them comfortable during the journey.

Limit Travel Hours to 4 Hours or Less

It is pretty stressful to travel with someone with this condition; therefore, a good amount of patience is necessary. While experts recommend keeping your travel time minimum, if you are traveling for more than four hours, it is sometimes required to take a faster means of transport. On the other hand, you can consider having at least two caregivers.

 Have an Emergency Bag Readily Available

Even if you have to check in your baggage, it is essential to have a separate bag containing all your important documents, medications, legal papers, extra clothing, doctors’ names, and contact information. Having all your necessary documentation in one place can save you time in an emergency.

Final Thoughts

It can be stressful to travel with a person suffering from dementia, but keeping things simple can help. For instance, try not to be overscheduled and fit in too many activities during the trip. And this can enable you to have a successful and fruitful vacation. Also, ensure plenty of resting time throughout the day and avoid elaborate tours and sightseeing that may cause confusion and anxiety.…

Things to Avoid When Traveling to Japan

Japan is a fantastic travel destination, and there are many things to see and do. However, there are also a few things you should avoid when traveling to Japan. 

Wearing Shoes Indoors 

One thing to avoid is wearing shoes inside homes and businesses. In Japan, it is rude to wear shoes inside someone’s home or place of business. You will often see shoes in a row outside a home or business door. Please take off your shoes and leave them in the row with the other shoes when entering. You’ll usually find slippers near the door that you can change into before entering.

Four Items

Another thing to avoid is giving a gift with four items. The number four is considered unlucky in Japan because it sounds like the word for “death.” So, if you’re giving a gift, make sure it doesn’t include four items. 

Sticking Chopsticks into Rice

Don’t stick chopsticks into your rice. The Japanese consider this incredibly rude and will earn you some dirty looks from locals. When you’re not using your chopsticks, rest them on the provided hashi oki or holder.

Also, never pour soy sauce directly onto your rice. Instead, add a small amount to your dish and mix it with your other ingredients.

Being Loud

And last but not least, avoid being loud and rowdy in public. Japanese culture values peace, so try to keep your voice down when out and about.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid offending anyone while traveling in Japan. Just remember to be respectful and always mind your manners!

While traveling is a fantastic experience that everyone should have, it’s essential to do your research before going to a new place. With a bit of preparation, you can make sure that your trip is enjoyable for you and the locals! …