Tips from an expert for traveling with Parkinson’s disease, part 2
Careful preparation can help make your trip more enjoyable
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Last in a series. Read part one.
In my previous column, Rachel Dolhun of the Michael J. Fox Foundation shared practical tips for managing challenges like stress and jet lag when living with Parkinson’s. This week, she offers insights on navigating specialized travel services and accommodations, and preparing for the risk of falling while traveling.
International travel can be stressful for anyone. For those with Parkinson’s disease, additional challenges, such as changing time zones and different levels of medical access, can add complexity. Careful preparation can help make your trip more enjoyable.
“First, make sure to bring an updated list of medications, what they’re for, and who prescribes them,” Dolhun said. “Bring medication (with extra in case of delays or other hiccups) in the original bottles in your carry-on. Don’t forget your deep-brain stimulator charger, programmer, and device card, if applicable. Consider also carrying a card (or photo of a card) stating your name and that you have Parkinson’s in the language of the country to which you’re traveling. It’s also a good idea to learn the emergency number and closest hospitals in the area, in case you need those services.”
Depending on your destination, you may be able to rent a walker or wheelchair. “Consider getting wheelchair transport, whether you feel like you need it or not, especially for big airports and train stations or other long distances,” she said. “Also, look to board early, where possible, to allow you extra time to get to and into your seat.”
While most hotels in the U.S. offer accessible rooms that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, some hotels abroad may provide only limited resources for accessible travel, making wheelchair use and showering more difficult. Planning ahead can help address some of these issues.
“When booking accommodations and activities, look for options that can support you: a first floor or otherwise more accessible room, group or organized outings that do the planning for you, or activities more on your own, with less of a schedule so you have more flexibility,” Dolhun said.
Navigating the risk of falling
In the later stages of Parkinson’s, about 70% of people who fall experience recurrent falls. Unfamiliar environments and jet lag can further increase this risk, but preparing for travel can help reduce the likelihood of falling.
“There are many steps you can take to limit the risk of falls or injury with falls. These include working with physical therapy, exercising regularly (including balance and weight-bearing activities), making sure your home is set up for safest and easiest walking (a home safety evaluation can help), and eating in ways that boost muscle mass and bone health, both of which are important for strength and balance,” Dolhun said.
Consulting a physical therapist before your trip may help you develop strategies to address symptoms like gait freezing. “For example, if you tend to freeze while in crowded areas, make sure you have strategies to overcome freezing. Or, if travel includes a lot of walking, ask whether a mobility aid, like a cane or walker, or even walking sticks, might help, and have them teach you proper use. Use wheelchairs or electric scooters when you are feeling fatigued,” she added.
Taking extra precautions before, during, and after a significant journey can also be helpful. “Be wary of dehydration, which can contribute to imbalance. Make sure to drink enough water each day. Carrying a refillable bottle can help,” she suggested. “Lastly, try to plan activities and big travel moments for [when] you are typically most ‘on,’ or medication is working its best.”
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.
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