Care doesn't take a vacation

Many employees have had to realize in recent weeks that their well-deserved vacation is already over. It's great that after one vacation, the next one is around the corner. Soon they will be circulating in companies again. The vacation lists. Especially if, in addition to your job, you also take care of relatives in need of care, it's worth thinking about the best time of the year now. Because whether you want to take your relatives on vacation or take a vacation from caregiving – organizing a vacation is a complex challenge for caregivers, with many things to consider.

Together in relaxation...

For most people, the caregiving situation is not only physically but also mentally very demanding. It is not uncommon for tensions to arise between those in need of care and their caregiving relatives. Not having to take care of everything for once. Being able to focus solely on each other can be healing for this relationship. First of all, however, you need to consider whether you want to organize the trip yourself or hire a travel agency specialized in trips with relatives in need of care.

... with the all-inclusive program

The Care Travel Agencies CAREFREE VACATION   and RUNA TRAVEL  offer, in addition to numerous vacation destinations at home and abroad, the all-inclusive package. The providers take care of their customers from the first to the last minute. You will be picked up from home, all aids can be procured for you on-site, and even the care services at the vacation spot are organized. Moreover, those in need of care are accompanied to the beach or on any other exploration tour, and it is ensured that the right food is available at the hotel. And the best part: from care level 2, care and support services can be billed through the care insurance fund – up to a maximum amount of 1,612.00 euros. However, it is important that you have an authorization letter for substitute care from your care insurance fund.

… on one's own initiative

Those who prefer to organize their vacation themselves must consider all of this on their own. On the website www.angehoerigen-pflege.de  you will find a comprehensive list. Among other things, it is advised to find out about accessibility as well as special care support in the accommodation and local emergency services. Special care hotels, which are specifically geared towards those in need of care, are particularly suitable here. The site of the "Travel for All" project by the German Seminar for Tourism (DSFT) is particularly helpful for anyone who wants to organize their own vacation. On www.reisen-fuer-alle.de There are over 2000 hotels, all of which have been certified according to the nationwide uniform labeling system "Travel for All". Also helpful: The page www.holiday-with-the-family.com Here you can search for accommodations with a care bed.

Don't forget, while taking care of your relatives, that you also have needs. Depending on how demanding the care is, it may be beneficial for you to also take advantage of a special program for caregiving relatives during this vacation. 

Arrival and Departure Without Obstacles

In addition to finding the right hotel, the arrival and departure should not be underestimated. Thus, a Flight might quickly become too exhausting for those in need of care. However, if this is not the case, it should still be ensured that

• The flight is only as long as it can be managed. In case of doubt, consult the attending physicians.
• if necessary, the wheelchair can be taken along. Also consider that this, as well as all other aids, must be registered.
• support is provided during check-in and check-out.

The German Railways (DB) offers a wide range of services for barrier-free travel. There are special compartments for wheelchair users and their companions. Particularly helpful: the barrier-free toilets are located right next to them. However, since these seats are especially popular during vacation time, they need to be booked in advance. In addition, DB's mobility service assists with boarding and transferring. Unfortunately, it happens occasionally that the elevator at smaller stations is out of order. This can become a challenge, but unfortunately, it cannot be planned. Surely, someone will be there to help. Because, the big advantage of traveling by train, which can compensate for any potential disadvantage: you can stretch, extend, and move your legs during the journey, arriving optimally relaxed at your destination. Most hotels offer a pick-up service from the train station.

Those who want maximum flexibility go with the Car The advantage: You can go anywhere at any time.  The organizational effort for smaller and larger trips is manageable. If your car is big enough, you can take all the necessary equipment with you. The disadvantage, if it is a disadvantage for you: Freedom of movement in the car is limited.

famPLUS - Together for your personal PLUS!