By car, plane, train or boat

05/06/2010

Travel by Car

Many Parkinson's medications can cause drowsiness. Dopaminergic medicines, ropinirole and pramipexole have bees associated with sleep attacks (falling asleep behind the wheel). Talk to your provider if you feel sleepy during the day or fall asleep during activities.
Leave your car (and stress) behind and let someone else do the driving.
Avoid eating big, heavy meals that can worsen sedation (think siesta). If you are driving, take a nap before you go and avoid eating for two to three hours before departing.
Pace yourself. Do not overestimate you abilities. While you may be capable of driving short distances to and from home, a longer road trip may require much more stamina. Either break the trip up into shorter distances with frequent stops, or share the driving with someone else.
Making road travel part of the fun. Many of us drive all day just to arrive at our destination stressed, tired, stiff and irritable. This is no way to start a vacation. Plan your route with many breaks. Enjoy the scenery and take your time.
Take plenty of breaks. See Sit and Stretch for more information.

Travel by Air

Request a non-stop flight if possible.
Book an aisle seat so that you can get in and out of your seat easily.
Check as many bags as possible, but remember to keep your medications in your carry-on.
Pack a snack. Fruits, nuts and whole grain bars promote energy and are healthier snacks than high fat chips and candies.
Ask for a wheelchair or use shuttle cars if your gate is a far distance. This may be a good idea even if you do not have serious walking problems. A wheelchair saves your energy, allows you to move faster and reduces stress if time is limited.
Ask for early seating for a few extra minutes to board and get comfortable.
Ask for a seat close to the bathroom if walking is a problem.
Use the bathroom before you get on the plane. Airplane bathrooms are often small and not handicapped-accessible.
If you are on a restricted diet, request a special meal in advance.
Avoid alcohol and replace with water.
Talk to your provider on strategies to manage panic attacks if you experience this problem. See Don't pack you stress for more information on stress reduction techniques.

Travel by Boat

A travel agent will help you find a cruise ship that is accessible to people with physical challenges.
Ask if rooms are ADA (American Disability Association) compliant. This is important if you have walking problems or freezing in tight spaces.
Cruise ships are full of activities. Pace yourself and chose wisely. Consider dancing or try yoga.
Avoid excessive gambling. This is especially important if you have problems with impulsivity control sometimes worsened by medicines.
Be aware of long distances on the boat. Consider bringing a wheelchair (You can rent one for the trip to conserve energy if you room is far from activities and restaurants.
Watch what you eat. So many indulgent food choices exist on cruise ships. Eating plenty of fruits (dried fruit such as prunes), vegetables, and fiber will help reduce problems with constipation.
Don't dehydrate and watch the amount of alcohol you drink.
Know what you are getting into before booking the land excursion. They may leave you exhausted and stranded if you cant keep up with the group.

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