Should someone with Alzheimer's disease travel alone?

Sorry. Forgot to mention that she was diagnosed with Alzheimer.

My mom will be 83 yo this year. She has traveled alone three times already to spend time with my sister then return to the USA. We have had no problem with the airline we use so far. We explain to the airline that she is traveling alone. The airline requested my phone and address as well as my sisters as well as emai address. When we arrive at the airport she is placed in a wheel chair. So far so good. She is not totally gone. She still recognizes us, and can use the bathroom on her own when she is home. When she will travel, i do not allow her to drink anything from the previous evening to lessen her chances of having to go to the bathroom while on the plane.

BandNerdsMom, may I ask if your Step-Mom has been a frequent flier, and flying on her own on many times over?

I know a woman who has some type of dementia but she will book flights to visit friends who live in far off lands, and fly back and forth in the States to visit her son's family with no problems. Her husband never goes with her. For some reason, I think because she has flown so much, that her mind is able to still understand the process.

Thus, if Step-Mom is not a regular frequent flier, this isn't a good idea. Chances are she wouldn't even get past the TSA by her refusing to cooperate.

Yes keep us posted before we read it in the newspaper

Keep us posted. We learn from each other!

Thanks for the information. I'll snail mail it to my dad. No, he doesn't have dementia and is quite active. He's always been a caregiver type and I think he believes he can see this through to the end, with little assistance from others. I've tried to be firm in my approach with him but I don't seem to be getting anywhere.

Oh my goodness that is really scary. Can you imagine how scared she's going to be in the airport? This makes me want to cry. Please, cancel her flight. Make up any excuse. She can not go alone.

alz.org/documents/centralcoast/Safety_24_Traveling_with_Dementia.pdf

Something to show your dad.

It IS insane. Does your dad have dementia too?

Who is she visiting in Boston? Are they aware of her condition? Perhaps the invitation could be rescinded.

I think I would alert mom's doctor with a certified letter followed up by a phone call.

Has the ticket been purchased? I would call the customer service line and talk to a representative of the airline.