Everyone loves a getaway to recharge, relax and spend quality time with loved ones. But with modern lifestyles and busy routines, it can be challenging to find the time and space to take this necessary step towards self-care regularly.
That’s why planning a vacation for your loved one with limited mobility is such an important step towards feeling emotionally and physically healthy. After all, vacations provide the much-needed opportunity to reset from daily stressors and reconnect with family and friends in a peaceful space.
With that in mind, here are some helpful hints for planning a vacation for your loved one with limited mobility.
Consider Your Specific Health Needs
If you’re planning a trip to a location where wheelchairs are not commonly found, be sure to double-check with the hotel you’re visiting to see whether it’s wheelchair-accessible. Depending on the mobility of your loved one with limited mobility, you may also want to consider taking along a wheelchair or scooter for extra mobility if you’re planning a trip to an outdoor location. If you’re planning a trip abroad, also be sure to check whether wheelchairs are allowed in the country you’re visiting. Many countries have strict laws around the importation and transportation of wheelchairs, which can vary depending on the country. As a general rule of thumb, try to bring a wheelchair that fits through the smallest opening possible and to avoid larger openings. If your loved one with limited mobility has other specific health needs, such as an eating disorder, diabetes or an asthma condition, you can speak with the health-care provider at your loved one’s residence to see what additional precautions you will need to take.
Plan Ahead, Book Early for Special Accommodations
Even if you’re planning a short trip, it’s important to allow yourself time to plan your vacation. This includes planning ahead for any additional mobility needs that your loved one with limited mobility might have. For example, if your loved one with limited mobility has an eating disorder and requires careful supervision while eating, you can pack a portable feeding pump and extra food for this purpose. Similarly, if your loved one with limited mobility requires extra assistance while using the bathroom, you can pack a portable commode. It’s also important to let the travel agency or hotel know in advance if you need a room with a wheelchair-accessible bathroom or room. Similarly, if your loved one with limited mobility requires assistance with mobility while in the room, you can let the hotel know in advance.
Research Your Accommodations
Be sure to check the mobility access around the vacation site. Many outdoor sites have cliffs with narrow walkways, which can be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate. Similarly, some vacation destinations have secluded beaches where wheelchairs are unable to navigate and get to the water.
Check Mobility Access Around Your Vacation Site
Be sure to check the mobility access around the vacation site. Many outdoor sites have cliffs with narrow walkways, which can be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate. Similarly, some vacation destinations have secluded beaches where wheelchairs are unable to navigate and get to the water.
Pack Appropriately
When packing for your loved one with limited mobility, make sure to bring any medical equipment or supplies they may need during your trip. You may also want to bring medical equipment or supplies that help your loved one with limited mobility regulate their emotions while on vacation. For example, if your loved one with limited mobility has an eating disorder, bring snacks that they can eat while on vacation to keep them from binging. Similarly, if your loved one with limited mobility has an emotional regulation disorder, bring toys, books or other calming items to help them relax and de-stress from their trip.
