We are planning a trip in the fall. Because my wife has a heart pacemaker, she will have to go through the whole-body scanner at the airport, and it might take me longer to get our take-on luggage through the other scanner. I am concerned that she might wander off looking for me.
My husband has an implant (for brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease) and also has some cognitive impairment. He has to go through the TSA scanner where you put your hands up. At all the airports we've been to, his scanner is right next to the one I go through. I don't have him go through it until I go through mine, so that I'm waiting for him on the other side of both our scanners.
I also have him wear a Hidden Disabilities Sunflowers landyard. It's a program for folks with a hidden disability, like cognitive impairment, autism, anxiety, etc. Airport staff are trained to know that the wearer needs extra time, more patience, etc. I really like it because the placard on the lanyard has spaces for his name, the disability and his needs, and, most importantly, my name and phone number. Should he get separated from me, someone can call me for us to get re-connected. It's great peace of mind for me.
I wish you safe and smooth travels!
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There is also this program...
"To expedite the check-in process at airports, several programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR can be utilized. TSA PreCheck allows eligible travelers to leave on their shoes, belts, and light jackets, and keep their laptops and liquids in their bags. CLEAR, on the other hand, offers a faster way to verify your identity, allowing you to bypass the traditional ID check at security checkpoints."
The only tag I know that can't be removed are those you get when in the hospital or having one day surgery done. You have to cut them off. Seems you can purchase them on-line.
I so hope your using a Travel Agent because the questions you are asking can be answered by them. Every airline is a little different in criteria and an agent knows or can get you this info.
They will have someone pick you up, pack your bags on the cart and "drive" you to the gate. This should speed up going through security.
Do what you can in advance having nothing in pockets and bags organized so that they are easy to go through.
For added safety you might want to get someth8ing like a necklace chain and attach an air tag or other tracking device to it just in case she wanders. Also look for family washrooms.
Safe travels...
If you state that your wife may wander, you may be able to both get pat downs together.
Despite the uniforms and "strictly business demeanor" they are very helpful if you share your situation with them. I am sure they have handled similar scenarios.
Best of luck to you.
I copied this info from the internet about going through the TSA. I hope it helps you.
Here's how to navigate TSA with a pacemaker and bracelet:
Inform the TSA Officer: Before initiating the security screening process, tell the TSA officer that you have a pacemaker and a medical alert bracelet.
Medical Device ID Card: Carry your pacemaker's Medical Device ID Card and be prepared to present it to the TSA officer. This card helps identify you as an implanted device patient and provides important information about your device to medical personnel in case of an emergency.
Metal Detectors and Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT):
Walk-through Metal Detector (WTMD): Individuals with pacemakers should not be screened by a walk-through metal detector, as the metal components of the device may trigger the alarm.
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT): The full-body scanner (AIT) is safe for people with pacemakers and will not harm the device or alter its settings. You may choose to be screened using AIT, which can help reduce the likelihood of a pat-down.
Pat-Down: If you choose not to go through the AIT scanner or if there are any alarms during screening, you will receive a pat-down screening. You can request a private pat-down if you prefer.
Hand-Held Wands: If a hand-held metal detector wand is used, request the TSA officer to move it quickly over the pacemaker area and not hold it in place for too long, as it could potentially interfere with the device's function.
Medical Alert Bracelet: Your medical alert bracelet may also be subject to inspection or screening, according to the Transportation Security Administration (.gov). It is recommended to wear or carry documentation describing your medical condition to facilitate the screening process.