Work

Preparing for Takeoff: Addressing In-Flight Challenges Faced by Persons Living with Dementia and Travel Companions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Addressing the challenges faced by travelers with dementia and their companions requires developing accessible services based on inclusive principles, dementia awareness, and a willingness to listen to the voices of those living with dementia. Although increasing awareness of the needs of travelers with dementia has seen positive changes within airports globally (e.g., the sunflower lanyard), the needs and experiences of travelers with dementia in-flight are less well understood. This poster combines findings from two similar studies conducted in the USA and Australia exploring in-flight issues from the perspective of travelers with dementia (n = 55), their companions (n = 217). We share the consistent themes on in-flight challenges that were found in both studies, with additional insight from flight crew in the Australian study (n = 21). In-flight challenges included anxiety, confusion, toilet access and use, awareness of available assistance, negative flight crew interactions, and seating arrangements. We share participants’ own strategies for preventing or mitigating the issues they have faced and make additional recommendations for air travel guidelines to support safe travel.

Source: Innovation in Aging

DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaf122.2485

Authors: Colleen Peterson, Renee St. Louis, Tamara Statz, Maria O’Reilly

Institutions: University of Michigan, Central Queensland University

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,977