Managing Arthritis Symptoms During Travel

Posted by Scott Cantin in elderly care, Senior Care, Senior Health | 0 comments

Arthritis is a painful condition that affects millions of seniors around the United States. Arthritis causes swelling and inflammation in your joints. It typically worsens with age, with the two most common types of arthritis being rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. While it’s common amongst seniors, it can be managed with certain lifestyle changes and medications. However, travel can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, causing pain and discomfort during your trip.

If you want to stay comfortable and pain-free during travel, these tips from Advancare will assist. As a premier provider of caregiver services in Miami, we’re committed to helping seniors effectively manage arthritis symptoms so they can make the most of their travels.

Take your time and plan ahead

Stress can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, so to stay pain-free during your travels, try to do everything you can to plan. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid having to rush at the last minute. If you’re flying, get to the airport in plenty of time before your flight. This way, you can check in at your pace, get through security in time, and have a leisurely rest before boarding the plane.

If you’re driving, leave plenty of time to make it to your destination without having to rush. For longer drives, build in some extra stops during your trip, including stopping at a nice restaurant and taking plenty of bathroom breaks.

Pack medication with care

Traveling with medications can be stressful, but many with arthritis can’t do without their meds. In advance of your trip, pack your medication in carry-on bags that display the medication’s name and dosage information. If it needs to be refrigerated, make sure you have a small travel cooler for storage. It’s also a good idea to reach out to the airline before your trip to check on any restrictions that might affect your ability to travel with your meds. Be willing to explain what your medications are and what they’re for, if you’re stopped by airport security.

If you have any joint replacements, you’ll likely need to go through the full-body X-ray machine at the airport. You might also consider bringing a card from your doctor that identifies you as a joint replacement recipient. This can expedite your time at the airport and make it easier for security to get the information you need.

Bring your essentials with you

As important as it is to bring your medications with you, it’s also ideal to bring anything on your travels that helps alleviate stress. Many arthritis sufferers find it helpful to bring extra pillows, including neck support pillows or lumbar cushions that make air or car travel more comfortable. Wrist braces, essential oils, therapeutic tape, or other pain relief devices can all be helpful.

Stay hydrated during your travels by bringing a water bottle with you and refilling it when you encounter a fresh water station. Make sure to also bring some healthy snacks, such as protein bars, apples, or oranges. These sturdy snacks travel well and can give you an energy boost when it isn’t possible to stop by a gas station or restaurant. Finally, stay moving as often as possible to avoid joint stiffness on the road. Even if you’re on an airplane, get up when it’s safe to do so and walk up and down the aisle.

Advancare provides compassionate caregiver services in Miami

Arthritis can be a tricky condition that complicates travel. However, with a few simple steps, you can make your trip the best one yet. If you need some assistance planning your travel while managing arthritis, Advancare can help. Our in-home care services in Miamiwill empower you to travel pain-free. Contact us to learn more about our senior care in Miami!