Can you still go on holiday with dementia?
Written by: Sarah Findlay Travel Insurance Expert
Reviewed by: Dr Ellen Welch NHS GP and resident medical expert
Read time: 6 minutes
With careful planning, many people with dementia can enjoy safe and rewarding holidays. A slower pace, familiar routines where possible and realistic expectations can make travel less stressful. Prioritise comfort and flexibility over trying to see everything.
Choosing the right destination
A great holiday starts with picking the right spot. When you are travelling with someone who has dementia, the best destination may be one you already know well.
Returning to a favourite hotel or holiday home can help some people with dementia feel more settled. Familiar surroundings and routines may reduce anxiety and make it easier to find important areas such as the bedroom, bathroom and dining room.
Think about sensory overload
Some people with dementia find busy environments overwhelming. Crowded streets, unfamiliar transport systems and excessive noise can increase confusion or anxiety. If this is a concern, consider a quieter destination with a slower pace and plenty of opportunities to rest.
Keep an eye on the weather
Hot weather increases the risk of dehydration, which can worsen confusion and increase the risk of delirium in people living with dementia. Where possible, avoid travelling during periods of extreme heat and make plans to stay cool, drink regularly and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. Cold weather also presents additional risks, so make sure appropriate clothing and footwear are available.
Getting through the airport with confidence
Airports are busy, loud, and sometimes overwhelming. However, you do not have to handle the crowds alone. There is excellent support available to help you move through the terminal at your own pace.
The sunflower lanyard
The lanyard lets airport staff know that someone may need a little extra time, patience or support. Many UK airports participate in the scheme, and staff are trained to recognise the lanyard, although the support provided may vary between airports.
Book special assistance
Many people think special assistance is only for wheelchair users. That is not the case. You can book a meet-and-greet service even if your loved one is fully mobile.
A staff member will meet you and help guide you through the terminal. You can arrange this through your airline at least 48 hours before you fly.
Find a quiet zone
Many airports now offer quiet seating areas, assisted travel lounges or sensory-friendly spaces for passengers who may become overwhelmed. Check your airport's website before you travel to see what facilities are available and whether they need to be booked in advance.
The slow travel routine
When you travel, it is tempting to pack every day with activities. When someone has dementia, the opposite approach works best. Maintaining familiar routines where possible can help reduce stress and confusion while travelling.
| Travel Element | Best Practice for Dementia |
|---|---|
| Flight Times | If possible, choose flight times that fit with the person's usual daily routine and avoid unnecessary overnight travel. |
| In-Flight Bags | Packed with familiar snacks, music, and photos |
| Medication | Carry enough medication for the trip, plus extra for unexpected delays, in your hand baggage |
Plan your timing wisely
If possible, choose flight times that fit with the person's usual daily routine and avoid unnecessary overnight travel. Sleep disruption can worsen confusion and contribute to ‘sundowning’- a pattern where confusion, restlessness or agitation become more noticeable later in the day.
Comfort in the air
Pack a bag specifically for the flight. Include familiar snacks, a tablet pre-loaded with their favourite films or music, and a small album of family photos. These items act as an emotional anchor, offering instant comfort if the environment feels unfamiliar.
Medication for your trip
Always pack enough essential medication to cover your trip, plus a small additional supply in case of unexpected delays. Keep this in your carry-on baggage. Flight delays or baggage mix-ups can happen to anyone, and having your medication close at hand means you will not run out of vital prescriptions while you are away.
Why specialist travel insurance is your essential safety net
We always hope for smooth travels, but it is vital to prepare for the unexpected. Having the right insurance means you can focus on enjoying your holiday, knowing you are protected if plans have to change.
The real financial risk
If a traveller becomes disoriented or falls ill abroad, the cost of medical care can rise rapidly. If they need a medical escort or a specially arranged flight to return home to the UK, the bill can reach tens of thousands of pounds. A specialist policy covers these emergency repatriation costs.
Cover for the carer
What happens if you, as the carer, are hospitalised abroad? Or what if your loved one needs to stay in a hospital? A good policy includes a companion clause. This covers the travel and accommodation expenses for a family member or carer to stay close by, ensuring nobody is left stranded alone in a foreign hospital.
The importance of a full declaration
You must declare the medical diagnosis when you buy your policy. Even if the dementia is mild or in the early stages, your insurer needs to know. If you do not declare it, the policy could be invalid. This means that if you need to make a claim for something completely unrelated, such as a lost bag or a broken leg, the insurer could refuse to pay.
Can you get travel insurance if you have dementia?
Many people living with dementia are able to obtain travel insurance, although the options available will depend on factors such as their medical history, destination and individual circumstances.
Here at Total Travel Protection, we are here to help you. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to travel safely. We do not have upper age limits, and we specialise in covering pre-existing medical conditions, including dementia.
Our team understands your needs. We use a straightforward medical screening process to find a policy that fits your specific trip. By securing the right cover, you can look forward to your holiday with real peace of mind.
To find out how we can help you, visit our medical screening page or get a quote online today.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ellen Welch
Dr Ellen Welch is a qualified NHS General Practitioner, author and member of the Medical Women's Federation. With over 20 years of experience, Dr Welch has worked as a senior cruise ship doctor, a Kilimanjaro expedition medic, and a ski season medic. Dr Welch also worked as a repatriation doctor, escorting travellers home when they fell ill overseas.
