Summer vacations are among the most anticipated times of the year. After months of work, summer finally arrives — ideally warm, joyful, relaxing, and spent with family. Most people begin planning this precious period of rest in late winter or spring, ensuring they can book accommodations or trips for their intended dates.
However, questions may arise concerning elderly family members, especially if they live in the same household: Should they also come along? If they have mobility difficulties, will they feel comfortable during the vacation? How can the needs and preferences of seniors be reconciled with those of the rest of the family?
It is entirely possible to plan a summer trip that accommodates diverse individual interests. Here are some tips to ensure everything runs smoothly:
Planning Your Intergenerational Getaway
• Decide on the Type of Family Vacation: Determine whether you prefer to relax at the beach, in the countryside, or if you would rather opt for a more active cultural trip. Subsequently, choose your destination.
• Consult with a Healthcare Professional: After making these decisions, speak with the family doctor or a responsible caregiver. Explain the type of vacation you are planning to understand the precautions that should be taken during your leisure time. Take this opportunity to request prescriptions and ensure daily medication is available. If you plan to travel outside of Portugal, it is advisable to purchase all necessary medications in your home country beforehand. This suggestion is crucial for ensuring a relaxed vacation for everyone.
• Choose Appropriate Accommodation: Depending on your destination, select accommodation suitable for everyone. For instance, if you choose a beach vacation, whenever possible, opt for a ground-floor unit without stairs at the entrance, with an elevator, minimal furniture, a spacious bathroom with a wide shower, and easy access. If your preference is a cultural trip, it is recommended to choose a hotel located near major tourist attractions and squares with restaurants. If you decide to travel abroad, it is essential to ensure you have access to a hospital or health center at your destination and to obtain details regarding medical assistance if needed. The hotel bathroom should be spacious and include a shower. It is equally important that the room is large enough to store luggage and other belongings, allowing ample space for movement and reducing the risk of bumping into objects.
Activities and Essentials for a Smooth Trip
• Plan Activities Mindfully: If you choose a beach vacation, ensure you bring a sun umbrella and a chair, as seniors may have difficulty getting up from the ground. Additionally, always use sunscreen and pack plenty of water and healthy snacks. For countryside trips, always be mindful of uneven terrain. Accompany seniors on walks and offer an arm for support. For cultural vacations, you can inquire about hotel-organized excursions, which can provide a more relaxed experience by departing directly from the reception, avoiding extensive walking. Alternate days with more distant activities with days focused on nearby attractions, allowing seniors time to rest. Be sure to bring water, small snacks, and daily medication before heading out.
• Cultivate Understanding and Patience: Above all, understanding and patience are essential from everyone. Younger family members must recognize that seniors may take longer to move, eat meals, and prepare to go out. Similarly, seniors should understand that they may need to exert themselves more on active days and remain patient. The secret to a peaceful and happy vacation lies in respecting each person’s preferences.
Support Services for Your Vacation
If you are vacationing in the Cascais or Oeiras areas and need your elderly family member to remain at home or in the hotel to rest, KindCare is available to provide full and secure support. With our assistance, you can continue to enjoy the beach, dinner, or relax by the pool. Make your vacation memorable and ensure that any minor setbacks are easily managed with KindCare’s help.