Travel as a Caregiver

Crossing Borders, Carrying Love

Whether your destination is a long-term care facility in Mexico or an exploratory visit, traveling internationally with someone who is elderly or cognitively impaired requires thoughtful preparation—logistically, emotionally, and medically.

1. The Story: Navigating the Narrative

One of your first decisions will be what to tell your loved one.

If your loved one has cognitive impairment or dementia, they may be unable to retain or process your explanations. Even if you’ve discussed the trip previously, they may no longer remember agreeing to it—or may become combative, emotional, or fearful.

Craft a “travel story” that:

• Matches your loved one’s emotional state
• Offers comfort or familiarity (e.g., “We’re going on a relaxing trip,” or “We’re visiting a lovely place where people can help you feel better.”)
• Avoids confrontation or debate
• Can be repeated consistently

Let go of needing them to “understand” the entire plan. The goal is to reduce fear and avoid distress—not to convince.

2. Preparations: Pack with Intention

Start by scheduling an appointment with your loved one’s physician. Let them know you’re traveling internationally and ask for:

• Travel-approved prescription refills (30–90 days, as needed)
• Over-the-counter recommendations for common issues (nausea, sleep, digestion, anxiety)
• Travel medications for emergencies (e.g., mild sedative, anti-anxiety, or incontinence aids)

Packing tips:

• Use two nesting rolling suitcases—you’ll return with one inside the other
• Pack layered clothing suitable for the current season in Mexico
• Include sentimental items—framed photos, familiar blanket, small keepsakes
• Avoid bringing jewelry or valuables
• In your carry-on:
  
  • Change of clothes for both of you
  • Incontinence items
  • Medications (in original bottles)
  • Snacks and hydration
  • Comfort items (magazine, fidget toy, music)

3. Safety: Protecting Both of You

Even with great planning, travel can be unpredictable. Prepare safeguards:

• Carry a physician’s letter stating your loved one’s diagnosis and need for assisted living/memory care. This can help if questions arise from security or airline staff.
• Create a travel ID card for your loved one with:
  
  • Their name and diagnosis
  • Your name and contact information
  • A phrase like: “This person is under the care of a family member. Please assist if they appear disoriented.”
• Consider a luggage tag or wearable ID: “If I am lost, call my caregiver at (xxx) xxx-xxxx”
• Have printed “explanation cards” to discreetly hand to airline staff, fellow travelers, or bathroom attendants to explain your situation without drawing unnecessary attention

4. Required Documents for Admission

To ensure a smooth admission into a Mexican care facility, bring:

• Passport (for both of you)
• Prescription list (current meds + dosages)
• Medical history or summaries
• Doctor’s letter prescribing assisted living or memory care
• Insurance documentation
• Copies of Power of Attorney and Health Care Directive

Have both physical copies and digital backups on a secure drive or app (such as Dropbox or Google Drive).

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Airports, security lines, and public restrooms are not designed with caregivers in mind. You will almost certainly need to ask for help:

• Request wheelchair assistance at the airport ahead of time
• Ask TSA for family screening assistance
• If you’re accompanying a loved one of the opposite gender, kindly ask a staff member or fellow traveler to monitor them in the restroom (especially if no family/accessible bathroom is available)
• Look for quiet spaces if your loved one becomes agitated—some airports offer sensory rooms

Remember: kindness is often extended when people understand your situation.

6. Travel Planning: Strategize the Journey

Make the trip as seamless and low-stress as possible.

• Break up the trip into manageable segments
• Consider overnight flights when airports are quieter—unless your loved one suffers from sundowning, in which case early morning travel is best
• If your airport is far from home:
  
  • Stay in a hotel the night before with long-term parking and shuttle service
• Upon arrival in Mexico:
  
  • Arrange private airport transportation
  • Book a hotel near the care facility to allow a gradual transition and tour before move-in

Final Words: Courage in Motion

Traveling internationally with a cognitively or physically impaired loved one isn’t just a logistical undertaking—it’s a deeply emotional one. You are transitioning both of your lives. The weight of that is immense.

But with preparation, compassion, and flexibility, you can make this journey not just successful, but meaningful. You are helping your loved one step into safety, support, and dignity. And that is an act of love few ever experience.