Parkinson’s Awareness Week

Coronavirus has put a stop to many things over the last year but Parkinson’s disease has continued throughout.  Therefore, we must continue to help raise awareness, especially as this week is UK Parkinson’s Awareness Week, and so we have created a quiz to help you learn some of the key facts.  

Parkinson’s Awareness Quiz

Parkinson Awareness Week – making a donation 

According to Parkinsons.org.uk , 1 in 37 people alive today in the UK will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s in their lifetime. Although scientists worldwide work tirelessly to develop further research and medication to help those living with the disease – we all must join together to learn more and raise awareness. 

There are many ways to get involved. If you would like to make a difference by donating, you can do so by visiting Parkinsons.org.uk.

Travelling with Parkinson’s 

Now that lockdown restriction is easing in the UK, more people will be planning to travel, including those with Parkinson’s disease. While everyone deserves the opportunity to travel, if you or someone you love are living with the condition – there may be a few things to consider before you and while you are away.

Comprehensive medical travel insurance 

Before travelling, you’ll want comprehensive medical travel insurance. Many standard policies that you see online may offer cheap travel insurance but will often deny cover for those with a pre-existing medical condition. So, it’s worth doing your research beforehand and choosing a provider that can offer you the right level of cover. To protect yourself and your holiday – you’ll want a policy that covers you for both cancellation and medical emergency expenses while you’re away. If you are looking for Parkinson’s travel insurance, AllClear can help! Our specialists can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have along the way. 

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what an AllClear customer had to say about our Parkinson’s travel insurance: 

Excellent product and service

“I’ve used AllClear Travel for our family’s insurance needs for a few years now. I have a number of medical conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease, and they manage to find me a reasonably priced policy every time, even when travelling to the USA. The online quote procedure is very easy and quick, and I have no issues at all. I would highly recommend AllClear Travel to everyone.” – Emma M

Medical certificate 

It’s always best to be prepared when it comes to travelling. If you’re living with Parkinson’s, it’s a good idea to ask your GP, specialist or Parkinson’s nurse for a medical certificate or letter which states your condition and the medication you take. This should help you if you are questioned at customs or taken ill while you’re away.

COVID fit-to-travel certificate 

In the days prior to travel, you may also need proof of a negative COVID-19 test. This will depend on your chosen destination and the airline you’re flying with. We’ve gathered the latest information on flight corridors and FCDO advice to help make things a little easier. 

We’ve also detailed the difference between fit-to-fly certificates and COVID fit-to-travel certificates. 

Top 5 tips before you travel 

1. Keep your medication with you; it is best to pack them in your carry-on bag. 
2. If you are on a special diet for Parkinson’s, notify your airline and accommodation in advance to see what they can arrange for you.
3. Flying can affect your blood pressure. Speak to your GP for tips on how to deal with low blood pressure before travelling. Feel free also to read our blog on flying with high blood pressure for additional tips.
4. If you use a wheelchair, contact your airline before you fly – they will help you arrange transfers to and from the airport and provide you with a seat in the aisle to make things a little easier for you. 
5. It can be easy to become overwhelmed with pre-holiday nerves, so make sure in the days before you travel you get plenty of rest and focus on the things you have to look forward to.

Top 5 tips while travelling  

1. Consider wearing a medical alert ID; you can buy one in various forms, from bracelets to necklaces to cards – for more information, visit: www.medicalert.org.uk
2.  It’s always handy to carry a card that enables you to translate your condition. The EPDA has put together a doc that’s available in 25 languages. It states your name, medical condition (Parkinson’s disease) and emergency contact.
3. Keep in contact with a family, friend or loved one – update them now and then on how you’re feeling and when you’ll be back. 
4. Consider booking a travel ticket which enables you to use the local bus, train or tram whenever you need to during your stay. Hopefully, this will allow you to travel from place to place without having to walk everywhere – preserving your overall energy levels. 
5. Lastly, make the most of your trip. After enduring lockdown – it’s now time to relax and enjoy your well-deserved break. 

 The information in this blog post is not intended to replace professional medical advice. It is a general overview of a broad medical care topic. Blog posts are not tailored to one person’s specific medical requirements, diagnosis or treatment. If you do notice symptoms or you require medical advice, you should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider to obtain professional medical help. Read through our disclaimer for more information.

Resources

• EPDA
• Parkinsons.org.uk
• www.medicalert.org.uk

Author notes. By Lydia Crispin, AllClear Medical and Travel Content Creator. “It’s important to us that our customers have confidence when they travel. For every holidaymaker’s peace of mind – we strive to continuously provide the latest-travel insights and industry updates so that each and every person can make well informed travel-related decisions.”

Edited by Letitia Smith, MSc, Content Manager at AllClear.

Published 13/04/2021