The holidays are nearly upon us, and this means traveling for many people. While this can be stressful enough when you’re younger, holiday safety is important whether you are traveling to or from Queens with your elderly loved one.
Not only are there many different types of viruses out there, but we also need to take into consideration the weather and other factors. Have no fear, however, because a few simple steps are all it takes to have a great time traveling with the elders in your life.
1. Flu, and Other Illnesses Impact Holiday Safety
Covid may be the virus that is getting all the attention, but it’s important to remember that the flu and other illnesses still impact holiday safety and are an issue for many elderly individuals.
- When the elderly get sick, dehydration is one of the biggest threats they can face, according to the CDC. There are simple ways to prevent this. While water is great, it doesn’t provide electrolytes, which are crucial for someone who is dealing with dehydration. Pedialyte is a great way to get some fluids back into your loved one, as well as provide them with some much-needed electrolytes. It also comes in convenient packs which you can toss in a bag as you travel.
- Symptoms like cough, runny nose, and headache can be very annoying. Hand sanitizer and tissues are a must. If you’re on the road, it’s advised that you grab some of this ahead of time, just in case. You never know if stores will be out, so it’s easier just to bring it along with you.
- As for nutrition, you want to focus on foods loaded with vitamin C and other nutrients. These can include broth, fruits, leafy greens, oatmeal, and even yogurt.
- For someone facing a stomach bug, the BRAT diet is the way to go. This stands for bananas, rice, apples, and toast. Other foods you can give to an elderly person who is suffering from a stomach bug include avocados, pumpkin, steamed or boiled veggies, saltine crackers, cream of wheat, unseasoned skinless baked chicken or turkey, or even scrambled eggs. Having a list of options is always good, as the stomach can be especially picky after going through the stomach flu.
- If they do get the flu or some other virus, it’s a good idea to have a prepared list of emergency rooms and medical clinics you can access quickly. This is especially important if you aren’t familiar with the NYC area.
2. Holiday Safety Tips in Cold Weather
Winter may not be here yet, but it’s certainly on the way. With that in mind, there are some holiday safety tips to take into consideration when traveling with an elderly loved one.
- Make sure they have shoes that are slip-proof. This is especially true when walking on the slippery sidewalks of NYC. If necessary, bring along a wheelchair. They may prefer to walk on their own, but you can always wheel them inside. They can then get up and walk once they’re on dry, slip-free carpeting.
- Also, keep in mind that the elderly get colder much faster than they did when they were younger. In fact, the National Institute on Aging reports that they may be prone to hypothermia. This is when their body temperature is 95 °F or lower, and it can lead to health issues such as kidney problems, heart attacks, or even liver damage.
- If you’re traveling outside with someone who is elderly, make sure they dress warmly. Stuffing a blanket in a bag may seem like overkill, but it can make a huge difference when you’re sitting in one place, such as waiting for a bus or taxi. Hot Hands are also a great way to keep hands warm when outside.
3. Long Distance Travel
If you’re traveling a long way from home with an elderly family member or friend, there are a few things to keep in mind. Whether it’s by car or plane, these will still apply.
- Try to bring along snacks that can be taken with medication in the event that poor weather leaves you stranded. This is helpful for tiding elderly loved ones over until you can get a more filling meal. It’s also important for medications that must be taken with a meal.
- Bringing small comfort items from home can also make the trip go more smoothly.
- Finally, try to make some time for them to get some exercise. Even if you do a quick Yoga workout on YouTube while in a hotel room, it can keep them moving and loosen up stiff muscles.
David York Agency Home Healthcare Can Help Seniors in Queens
At the David York Home Healthcare Agency, our caregivers understand the importance of helping your loved one maintain the connections and activities that bring them joy. For information about how we can help support seniors to live their best lives, contact us today!
DYA understands the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly and are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and down. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Queens that provide in-home healthcare services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
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