Northwest Airlines assist those with Alzheimer’s Disease.
August 18, 2007 by Liz Lewis
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
Northwest Airlines is one of the few airlines that recognizes that traveler’s with cognitive problems require extra assistance. Their Adult Assistance Program is similar to an airline’s unaccompanied minor program in that they will
-Escort on/off aircraft.
-Provide escort at connecting/layover points.
-Positive hand-off during transfers and connections.
-Keep emergency contact information throughout the travel itinerary.
-Provide documentation and verify ID of person designated to meet at final destination.
-Contact designated adult(s) in the event of a cancellation, diversion, or lengthy delay.
There are a few catches. The service is not free, is not provided on international flights, and there is a long list of what the airline staff will not do.
But for anyone concerned about a relative with Alzheimer’s Disease having to travel alone, this could be the answer.
Further reading:
Travelers with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disabilities
This is very helpful information, Liz. My mother traveled alone, actually her first airline flights ever, when she was in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s. We didn’t realize at the time that’s what it was, but knew she was beginning to get forgetful. However, she made her destination and return trip. Changing planes in Chicago! However, attendants helped her and she was met with a wheelchair and transported tha way to her connection. I marvel now, as I travel through busy airports, that she managed on her own. In later flights, she was accompanied by a family member.