I am planning a cruise for 6 days in November. I have six close friends going with us. My issue is as you know Alz people can get upset in unfamiliar situations. How do I keep him calm and hopefully enjoy himself. My doctor said to keep the Ativan handy and make sure he does not get overhausted. I have also gotten us a larger room so he does not feel closed in. On previous cruises he has been confused and kept saying I want to go home after about two days. I cannot go without him as he is very attached to me and I know he feels safe when I am around.
Let him know you "hear him" about his concerns, wants and needs. Maybe ask one of the guys to do a thing or two with him, or have him join them as a group.
Try to have a good time. You deserve it. I give you credit for your strength.
I cannot imagine taking him on a cruise! If he was uncomfortable two years ago it is likely to be worse now. In my Mom's case tge last time she wasnout of town and it was just one night in a condo shared with other family. Nobody got any rest that night as Mom kept wandering and wanting to go home.
I would find a facility for him to stay so you can enjoy the cruise, and have some respite for yourself.
Traveling requires everyone must understand the individual has Alzheimer's Disease, be aware of the danger because of the Alzheimer's, Confabulation is common. The person will say things to people containing information that is blatantly false, tell of actions that inaccurately describe history, background and present situations. The added danger is the answers are coherent, internally consistent, and appear relatively normal.
Nothing worse than encountering others on a cruise untrained to care for person with Alzheimer's. A serious danger posed by Alzheimer's disease is when the individual turns around, the place they expect to see is gone and they find themselves standing helplessly confused what they see is different and totally unfamiliar to them.
Think of the position you will put the cruise operators in if he gets worse
Welcome to our special place in h*ll.
Though I understand what you are saying, hubby does not belong on this cruise. It would be hard on everybody. Which brings up another question.
Sheila, do you need to board a plane to travel to the departure location? I cannot imagine the frightening possibilities on a plane!
And another of your posts you mention you are awaiting determination on a Medicaid application. Something is not right here.
I have traveled with my elderly parents, and even cruised with my friend's Very elderly dad, because she could not leave him.....but they did not have AD.
Sorry I think you were trying to hold onto some sense of normalcy in your life. I just do not think this will work out well for you. At the very minimum make sure you have ship health insurance.... You never know what can present.
Best of luck.
You're planning a trip that the husband you used to know would have enjoyed. This husband needs routine and security. A cruise is exactly the opposite of that.
As others have advised...call a local AL community and reserve a respite stay for him. Book a few days longer than the cruise so you have a day or so to settle him in there and a day to regroup when you get back. Rather than discuss it (argue) with him, have the doctor 'prescribe' a brief stay for 'rehab'.
Think of your friends who are accompanying you and the other cruise passengers. Your husband is better off at home. You need a break, too. You CAN go without him. He will be fine.
Again, not the answer you want but the best option and safest option for your husband is to not bring him. Sorry.
I had been taking my mother out for awhile but saw that public places created a huge disorientation in her demeanor and that's why I don't take her. I don't particularly care what YOU think about people with dementia. I do what right for my mom. If you don't want to SEE the effects of aging, I'd suggest You stay away from public places.
So sorry to be so rude. But my goodness.
I think a cruise is an excellent choice for a vacation. for one thing the boat is contained for the most part except shore excursions, etc..... so that is somewhat a comfort, but what I really find appealing is the ease of a cruise vacation.especially in caregiving role! More meals and food options than a human needs. May I have another lobster, please!!! No worries about what to do where to go, just sign up for what sounds fun onboard or take an adventure out, but it is all organized for you...you just basically have to show up!!
I remember also when mom was just arthritic, she would complain and use that cane like a security blanket. I took her and dad on a cruise for their anniversary and the next morning we did not see that cane till we went home!! I was glad to give her that!!! We had the time of our lives!
I so hope you get to go and make some precious memories, life is too short!!!
I just popped in here and did not see the negative stuff until after posting just skimmed and saw " dirty" thing....
Your out of line, They are human beings and deserve to be wherever they want to be, and kharma shall make that place be close to you!!!!
Sorry but that was just rude of them!
Anyway, it is up to the individual situation and circumstances what they feel comfortable with! We can only offer advice/experiences! and try to help them achieve normal life pleasures.
Perhaps also option if not mentioned already is a third person to come and help, often get specials on the 3&4 passenger! Maybe a responsible/old enough grandchild or fam member that would also appreciate the time/bonding they could help with luggage and the little things, etc..... allowing you to focus on the comfort of your loved one!