Dementia travel advice

[Posted: Tue 24/06/2008 by Niall Hunter, Editor www.irishhealth.com]

A new information leaflet has been developed to provide support and advice to carers of people with dementia when travelling.

Dr Eleanor Mullan, consultant psychiatrist at the Department of Old Age, South Lee Mental Health Services in Cork, says with thoughtful planning, it is still possible to travel with a person with dementia, especially in the earlier stages of the disease.

"Going on holiday should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both the person with dementia and their carer. Therefore, it is important to discuss the trip in advance with your GP and to develop a contingency plan for unexpected delays or diversions", Dr Mullan said.

The booklet outlines simple steps to make travelling with a person with dementia easier. These include:

*Keep travel arrangements simple.

*Discuss concerns with the patient's doctor.

*Allow time for plenty of breaks throughout the day.

*Carry a picture of the patient in case they wander.

*Ensure the patient is wearing ID at all times.

The booklet has been produced by the South Lee Mental Health Services in conjunction with Lundbeck (Ireland) Ltd.

It is available by phoning 01 468 9800.

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