Carer supported holidays
Enjoyable holidays supported by dedicated Care Professionals, so older adults and people living with a disability can confidently enjoy time away from their usual environment.
What are carer supported holidays?
Carer supported holidays make travelling as an older or disabled person easier and more enjoyable by taking on the planning and organising, and providing practical assistance in a new location.A carer could help with tasks such as:
- Searching for accessible holiday options
- Assisting with bookings and managing travel documents
- Packing medications, medical equipment or mobility devices
- Providing personal care on the go
- Providing companionship to explore new places together
- Arranging accessible transport to, from and within a new destination
- Providing specialist care if needed
- Stepping in if plans change, such as finding local medical care or course correcting if transport is cancelled
- Advocating for their safety and comfort in a new destination
Why are carer supported holidays helpful for older adults?
For many older adults, or people living with a disability or illness, holidays may seem out of reach due to the difficulty of organising a trip, and concerns about travelling without support. Research finds that holidays can help to increase positive emotions and reduce feelings of depression, so this can be a much-needed change of environment that allows them to return feeling refreshed. For people with health conditions or mobility issues, this can be especially important as a way to boost their confidence, wellbeing and overall quality of life.A carer supported holiday can get them out of their comfort zone to try new things, while also providing a sense of safety and control so they can fully lean into and enjoy their experiences.
How could a carer supported holiday benefit me?
Travel should not be reserved only for those who can manage every aspect of this alone. If you dream of exploring or getting a break from everyday life–whether just a few hours from home, or a faraway destination you have always wanted to see–carer supported holidays could provide life-changing benefits by taking on the planning and logistics.Individuals with additional needs may find travel is more challenging, but practical and emotional support is available from experienced caregivers who can liaise with your GP, family and others involved in your care to design a trip that works for you. Whatever your needs are, from mobility support to help with visual impairments to dementia care, there are ways to make your travel dreams a reality.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
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Home Instead have an experienced caring team that far exceeds in quality anything we experienced from other agencies at this point of service.Steve, Client
My mum receives excellent care from Home Instead. They are all very caring, friendly, organised and help my mum to feel happy, safe and well cared for in her own home. The carers are very good at communicating with the office and in turn the office are great at communicating any concerns to me as situations arise.Jane, Client's Family
Home Instead provide first class care. My care professionals are patient, kind and very reliable. I am very happy with the service they provide.Paul, Client
How to get started arranging a carer supported holiday
We understand travel can be daunting for anyone who lives with mobility limitations or health conditions, but carer supported holidays make travel possible. From printing boarding passes to arranging coach travel to finding accessible bathrooms, there are so many ways our Care Professionals can minimise the stress of travel so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your trip.
Our helpful office staff can discuss your travel goals and preferences with you, find the best support, and design a care plan and personalised itinerary for your trip. We aim to match you with someone who complements your personality and interests so you can enjoy their company. If you would like to find out more about carer supported holidays, we can help.
Why Home Instead?
Our friendly Care Professionals and helpful office staff are on hand to support your travel dreams. We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so when planning a trip with one of our Care Professionals you can rest assured you will be travelling with someone who always has your best interests in mind, and can fiercely advocate for your health and comfort anywhere you decide to go.
We can provide a combination of services for your travels–from personal care to specialist care to simple companionship–so your holiday care can be tailored to your exact needs.
FAQs
What are carer supported holidays?
Carer supported holidays are travel options designed for elderly individuals with care needs and their families. These holidays include professional caregiving support tailored to help everyone enjoy a safe and comfortable break. This might range from assistance with daily tasks to full-time care throughout the holiday, ensuring that both the individual and their family or companion can relax and enjoy their time away.
Who can benefit from carer supported holidays?
Carer supported holidays are ideal for elderly people with disabilities, mobility challenges, long-term health conditions, frailty, or age-related needs who require extra care while travelling. Families or primary caregivers can also benefit as they get the opportunity to rest and recharge, knowing professional support is available for their loved one.
What services are included in carer supported holidays?
Services typically include:
- Personal care, such as help with dressing, bathing, and medication management
- Mobility assistance, including the use of aids and transport support
- Help with meals or dietary requirements
- Companionship during activities and outings
- Assistance with arranging accessible accommodations and travel
As well as having a Care Professional accompany you or a loved one on holiday, you can also find dedicated carer supported holiday providers that offer a full care package along with tailored travel and accommodation itineraries.
How do I choose the right carer supported holiday?
When choosing a specialist holiday provider, consider the following factors:
- The level of care available and whether it aligns with your needs
- Staff qualifications and experience in providing professional care
- Accessibility of accommodations and holiday destinations
- What activities and facilities are provided for relaxation and enjoyment
- Customer reviews and testimonials from others who have used the service
Reach out to providers to discuss your needs and ask about tailored options to ensure the holiday experience is both enjoyable and practical.
How do I book a carer supported holiday?
You can get in touch with your local Home Instead office for a chat about having a Care Professional accompany you or a loved one on holiday, and we can handle all the arrangements from there.
Alternatively, if you want to go with a specialist, start by researching reputable providers or organisations that specialise in accessible and supported travel. You can contact the provider directly to discuss your care requirements, preferred dates, and destinations.Once the details are confirmed, the provider will help coordinate the travel, care support, and accommodations tailored to your needs.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.