In News

11th April marks World Parkinson’s Day, an annual event to raise awareness of Parkinson’s, a neurological condition that comes with a unique set of symptoms and its own set of challenges.

This World Parkinson’s Day, Parkinson’s UK is encouraging people to celebrate moments of light and laughter and sharing their experiences with the rest of the Parkinson’s Community. During the day, businesses and individuals will be encouraged to light up blue to show their awareness of the conditions.

As part of World Parkinson’s Day, we’re sharing our suggestions for travelling and going on holiday with Parkinson’s. While it can be challenging, having Parkinson’s shouldn’t stop you enjoying days out or holidays in the UK or abroad, here are some ways you can make the whole thing simple and enjoyable.

Before you go:

  • Schedule an appointment with your GP or if you have a special Parkinson’s nurse, arrange to meet with them so you can discuss your plans before you go. They will be able to make sure you have enough medication and can offer advice on activities. They may be able to provide you with a medical certificate or letter that will list the equipment you will need to travel with.
  • If you’ve recently changed your medication or had any additional treatments, make sure it’s working well before planning your trip, so you can be sure you will be feeling relatively well.
  • If you’re travelling by rail, ferry, car or air, make sure to be firm about your requirements when booking tickets. There will be assisted boarding and travel available, but they might not be aware of your specific requirements.
  • If you are booking through a travel agent, be sure to fill in the ABTA form for disabled and less mobile passengers.
  • If you require going through a scanner, be aware that it might affect things like pulse generators and to speak to the scanner operator or the travel company before travelling.
  • Even if you are travelling in the UK, buy travel insurance and check that the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions and that it also covers anything you might need like wheelchairs etc.
  • When booking accommodation, ask for a room on the ground floor or near a lift and if possible, find somewhere with grab rails in the bathroom and ideally a room that has suitable facilities.

Packing:

  • When packing, put outfits together like socks, undergarments, shoes etc all with the rest of your clothes to make things easier when you arrive.
  • Add a name label to your equipment, like walkers, canes or walking sticks just in case.
  • Pack wrinkle-free items with elastic waistbands and button-free outfits to make dressing easier.

While you’re away:

  • Wear a bracelet or a pendant so if you have any issues, people will know how to help you and what medications you take to tell paramedics or first aiders.
  • Give yourself enough time to explore and consider seeing fewer sights so you can spend more time at each one and have a more thorough experience.
  • Book tickets online where you can to avoid having to wait in queues and speak to venues so they know how to accommodate your needs.
  • Be sure to stay well hydrated during the day.

You can find more tips for travellers with disabilities here.

Find suitable accommodation here and ideas for things to do here.

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