Hold on to travel - Navigating planes, trains and automobiles with dementia

Jim Rogers was once ‘captain organised’ when planning overseas trips with his husband Tyler. But after his diagnosis of younger onset dementia, he’s learnt to get Tyler to assist with online check-in, packing and itinerary planning.  

And it’s not just setting off overseas that’s changed. Getting around town has become trickier now that Jim’s lost his driver’s licence.  

Like Jim, Juanita wishes she could zip over to the shops to do her weekly groceries. But since being diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, a trip like this needs a bit more planning. 

After losing her driver’s licence, Juanita has relied on public transport and taxis to get around town – but she’s figured out some handy ways to maintain her independence.  

Discover the tips and tricks you need to get out and about. 

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Hold the Moment is a podcast from Dementia Australia, produced by Deadset Studios and hosted by Jim Rogers and Hamish Macdonald.   

For support, you can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 (24 hours a day, seven days a week). The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government.   

Follow Dementia Australia on Facebook and Instagram or find support resources on our website. 

In this episode Juanita discusses how the sunflower lanyard for hidden disabilities has helped her travel independently. You can also watch this Dementia Australia webinar about driving and dementia. 

This episode was produced by Liam Riordan. Sound design by Sean Holden. The executive producers are Grace Pashley and Kellie Riordan. Production manager is Ann Chesterman. 

Dementia Australia and Deadset Studios acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today. 

Dementia Australia acknowledges and appreciates the support of the Australian Government for this initiative.