Expert: Michalene Peticca - 5/1/2010

Question
My sister would like to bring my 85+ y.o. Mom who has mild-moderate AD (cooks for herself, feeds herself, dresses and showers herself, does all ADL's, etc. for a trip from Maine to Arizona to visit for 2-4weeks. Family  members are worried that the stress would cause Mom to deteriorate and that she will "never be the same" upon coming home. She will be with my sister all of the time and has expressed wanting to go. I have no objections - should I be concerned?

Answer
Hello Bets,

This is an excellent question.   I can tell your family cares very much for your mother and helps each other with her care.

When an individual has Alzheimer's disease, even in the early stages, they are very sensitive to the slighest degree of change.  Routines are very important and structure is a key to minimizing confusion and any anxiety.   So, when an AD individual is "out of their element" and routines, more anxiety, more confusion is most likely to occur.

I don't believe your mom will "never be the same" if you all take her on the trip; however, i would strongly caution that there will be very much increased confusion, anxiety, and perhaps some wandering and paranoia type behaviors that may manifest.   If your family is well prepared for these issues, then you should take her.

I would strongly urge a "back up plan" for taking her back to Maine if she becomes very "unmanageable" with her dementia.  

I suppose i would answer the question, "why is this trip so important?" and if this trip does produce extreme confusion has it been worth it?

I would discuss this further with your family and get an agreement.

Best Regards,
Michalene Peticca, MA