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.
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.
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.
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.