As my dad with Parkinson’s prepares for travel, I have concerns

While boarding a recent flight, I noticed a man a few paces ahead of me in line. He looked to be in his 60s, with sun-worn skin and wrinkles framing his eyes. He wore a worried look on his face while watching the airport screen.

I couldn’t help but observe him, noticing the overlap between his physical symptoms and those I see my dad manage. The man’s hands shook slightly. The flight attendant asked if he’d be able to stand up from his wheelchair for the boarding process. He did.

Once standing, he leaned on his suitcase and a woman who appeared to be his wife, seemingly for added stability. He shuffled forward when the person ahead of him began moving toward a bus, which picked us up before planting us outside of a staircase that led inside our plane.

Tears welled in my eyes before I swallowed the pit in my throat. The man could have just as easily been my dad, fighting his Parkinson’s disease to exist in a busy place despite his physical limitations. We had a seven-hour flight ahead of us. I’m 33 and find that I usually have a crick in my neck after such a journey. I could only imagine the struggles he might endure to make it to our destination.

Fretting while seeking solutions

Once the plane took off, I immediately began texting my sister to process my feelings. She’s getting married this fall in Europe. She talked to my dad before setting the wedding location to make sure he’d be up for the adventure. But now that the actual travel date is drawing near, and after watching this stranger navigate some struggles my dad might encounter, my worries are growing.

My brothers will accompany him on the trip. We’ve already requested airport assistance and done everything we can to set him up for success. And still I worry. Travel is difficult even when you’re completely able-bodied and accustomed to sitting on long flights. How will my dad manage these same obstacles with his limitations?

One strategy I’m likely to use is a luggage-shipping service to further simplify Dad’s travels. Companies such as Ship & Play will mail your luggage from door to door with a bit of notice, allowing you to travel light. I told my dad that he should pack a carry-on with his basic essentials, but that shipping everything else would probably make the travel process easier.

My other plan is to simplify the mechanics of traveling. While I’d personally be more likely to use ride-sharing services and public transportation while in Europe, I think renting a car would alleviate a lot of stress and ensure my dad feels empowered and supported throughout the whole trip.

I’m welcoming other suggestions, too! Hit me with your best ideas in the comments below.

Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website 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 another qualified health provider 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 spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.