Nina,
Prior to initiating any move, it is imperative to speak with your father-in-law’s physician to attain medical clearance. You bring up a very important concern in that his heart may not be strong enough to outlast the trip. To find out for sure, you need to discuss this matter with his doctor in order to make sure this is a safe move to begin with. It is also advisable to speak with a social worker or case manager to help decide whether a transfer would be in his best interest in regard to quality of life. If after having these discussions, you have decided that transferring him is a good idea, you may want to consider some of the following suggestions:
If your father-in-law is unable to travel in a car for extended periods of time, you might want to think about arranging a flight. This can save time during traveling, and may be more comfortable for him. Of course, you or someone you know would have to accompany your father-in-law throughout the duration of the flight.
Traveling with a person who has Alzheimer's disease can be challenging, but can be made easier if certain things are put into place prior to departure. The first step is to research flights that can accommodate passengers with special needs. If none are available, you could start out by alerting airlines of the issue and asking how they handle individuals who may require assistance during the flight. Once you book the flight that is right for you, it is important to make special considerations in order to promote the smoothest trip possible. Prior to the trip, speak to your father-in-law’s physician to find out if there is any medication that can help make traveling easier. If he is calm and comfortable during the flight, it can make things easier for everyone. It's also a good idea to schedule the trip for a time of day when behavioral issues are less likely. If you find that he becomes agitated or upset during a particular time each day, this may not be the best time for him to engage in any sort of travel. When you get on-board, alert the crew that your father-in-law has special needs, and might require patience and extra assistance during the flight. In a carry-on, bring all medications, necessary food items, a change of clothes, and personal hygiene supplies such as wet wipes to get you through the trip. You should also bring some simple activities that may keep him engaged, such as his favorite music. Also, make sure to set out extra time in case unexpected issues come up - you want to stay patient and calm, to not rush the process. If your father-in-law is at risk for wandering off, make sure to have some sort of identification on him at all times, such as a bracelet, a wallet, or labels attached to his clothing.
If a car, bus or train is an alternative, you can apply some of the above suggestions to help him along the way. Regardless of your mode of travel, you can simplify the process by taking a few necessary steps to maintain your father-in-law’s safety and comfort level.
