Taking an Elderly Parent on Holiday to Tenerife
There’s something rather special about taking your mum or dad on holiday, particularly when they’re getting older.
Perhaps Tenerife was somewhere they visited years ago. Maybe they’ve always wanted to experience a little winter sunshine. Or perhaps you’re simply looking forward to spending some quality time together away from everyday routines.
Whatever the reason, a holiday in Tenerife with elderly parents can create some wonderful family memories.
But travelling with an older relative sometimes involves a little more preparation than an ordinary family holiday.
The good news is that with sensible planning, comfortable accommodation and the right support when needed, everyone can enjoy their time together.
Start by asking what your parent actually wants
It’s easy to get carried away planning the perfect holiday for somebody else.
You might imagine exciting excursions, boat trips and restaurant visits, while your parent would be perfectly happy sitting beside the sea with a good book.
Before making arrangements, have a conversation about what they’d really enjoy.
Would they prefer a quiet hotel or a self-catering apartment? Do they enjoy walking? Would they like to explore the island, or would they rather stay somewhere familiar?
Most importantly, involve them in the decisions wherever possible.
Getting older doesn’t mean losing the right to choose how you spend your holiday.
Choose accommodation that works for everyone
One of the biggest considerations when travelling with an older parent is accommodation.
A beautiful apartment with panoramic views might look wonderful online, but those views may come with a steep hill or several flights of stairs.
For visitors with reduced mobility, these details can make an enormous difference.
Look for accommodation with:
- Convenient access without unnecessary steps.
- A lift if the property is above ground level.
- A bathroom suitable for your parent’s needs.
- Comfortable seating and somewhere to rest during the day.
- Shops and restaurants within a manageable distance.
- Easy access for taxis or other transport.
Los Cristianos and parts of Costa Adeje are popular with older visitors, although individual neighbourhoods can vary considerably in gradient and accessibility.
It’s worth checking the exact property rather than relying on general descriptions of the resort.
Don’t underestimate the journey
For many older travellers, getting to Tenerife can be the most tiring part of the holiday.
Airports involve walking, queues, security checks and long periods of sitting.
If your parent has mobility difficulties, consider requesting airport assistance through the airline well before departure.
It’s also sensible to arrange suitable transport from Tenerife South Airport to your accommodation.
After several hours of travelling, the last thing anybody wants is a complicated journey to the hotel.
Tenerife Carers offers information about Tenerife airport help for visitors who may require additional practical assistance with arrival arrangements.
Plan activities around comfort, not ambition
Tenerife offers plenty to see and do, from the dramatic scenery of Mount Teide to picturesque coastal towns and traditional villages.
But a successful family holiday doesn’t depend on visiting every attraction.
If your parent becomes tired easily, shorter outings with plenty of opportunities to sit down may be far more enjoyable.
A leisurely breakfast, a gentle promenade walk and lunch overlooking the sea can make a wonderful day.
Try to avoid filling the itinerary so completely that everyone spends the holiday rushing from one activity to another.
And remember that the older person in your group might not be the only one who appreciates an afternoon rest!
What if your parent normally receives care at home?
Many older people remain active and independent while still needing some assistance with everyday activities.
Perhaps your parent receives help with washing and dressing, preparing meals or getting ready in the morning.
When planning a holiday abroad, it’s important to think about how those routines will continue.
Some families choose to provide all the assistance themselves. Others prefer to arrange occasional professional support so that everyone can enjoy the holiday.
Tenerife Carers provides elderly care services in Tenerife for residents and visitors, with support discussed according to individual needs.
Making enquiries before travelling can help establish what assistance may be available and whether it is suitable for your parent’s circumstances.
Remember that family members need a holiday too
Looking after an older parent can be rewarding, but it can also be tiring.
When you’re away together, it’s natural to want to make sure they’re comfortable and enjoying themselves.
However, if you’re responsible for every meal, every outing and every personal care task, you may find yourself returning home more exhausted than when you left.
There’s nothing wrong with arranging some help.
Occasional assistance with suitable everyday tasks or companionship may allow family members to enjoy some independent time while ensuring their parent has appropriate support.
That might mean enjoying a longer walk, spending an afternoon shopping or simply having a quiet meal together.
The aim is to create a holiday that works for the whole family.
Keep familiar routines where possible
Holidays naturally involve a change of surroundings, but maintaining some familiar routines can help older visitors feel more comfortable.
If your parent usually eats breakfast at a particular time, takes an afternoon rest or prefers an early evening meal, try to accommodate those preferences.
For someone living with memory difficulties, familiar routines may be especially reassuring.
It’s also sensible to keep important medication, contact information and relevant medical details organised and accessible.
If your parent has significant health needs, discuss travel plans with their healthcare professional before departure.
Allow room for independence
One of the easiest mistakes families make is trying to help too much.
It usually comes from kindness, but constantly making decisions on somebody else’s behalf can become frustrating.
If your parent is happy choosing their own meals, ordering at a restaurant or deciding what to wear, let them.
Offer assistance where it’s genuinely useful rather than assuming it’s always required.
A good holiday should leave everyone feeling included, respected and comfortable.
Prepare for unexpected situations
Most Tenerife holidays pass without any significant problems, but a little preparation provides reassurance.
Make sure your parent has appropriate travel insurance that covers any declared medical conditions.
Check medication supplies, keep important documents accessible and know how to contact your insurer if necessary.
The UK government’s health advice for Spain is a useful resource when preparing for travel.
For emergencies in Tenerife, the emergency services number is 112.
Make the most of your time together
Taking an elderly parent on holiday isn’t necessarily about creating a spectacular itinerary.
Often, the moments that matter most are surprisingly simple.
A coffee beside the sea. A familiar family story told over dinner. Watching the sunset together without having to think about the next day’s responsibilities.
With thoughtful planning and the right practical arrangements, Tenerife can provide a wonderful setting for spending time together.
If you’re planning a holiday with an older parent and would like to discuss personal care, companionship or everyday assistance, contact Tenerife Carers to explore what support may be available.
After all, the best family holidays are the ones where everyone gets to enjoy themselves.