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Mother and Son

Accessible Travel :
Cognitive/Autism

A cognitive challenge refers to any difficulty or impairment in one or more cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, perception, problem-solving, or decision-making. Cognitive challenges can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, traumatic brain injuries, mental health conditions, or the natural aging process. They can range in severity from mild to severe, and can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life and ability to function. Some examples of cognitive challenges include dementia, Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI).

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Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is considered to be part of a "spectrum" because it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees.

Some common characteristics of autism include difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication, difficulty with social interactions and understanding social cues, restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, difficulty with motor coordination and attention, and difficulty with understanding abstract concepts.

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How We Help

When curating travel for your loved one(s) with a cognitive challenge/autism, we consider:

  1. Sensory input in unfamiliar environments, such as loud noises and bright lights.

  2. The difficulty with social interactions and communication, making it hard to navigate unfamiliar places and interact with people.

  3. Resources for understanding and following instructions, such as reading maps or using transportation systems.

  4. Information and communication, such as websites and signage that are not as accessible to individuals with cognitive impairments.

  5. How change impacts behavior, making it hard to adapt to new and unfamiliar environments

  6. Attitudinal barriers, such as a lack of awareness or understanding about the needs of individuals with cognitive challenges and autism.

  7. Time management, making it easier to plan and schedule travel.

  8. Availability of specialized support services, such as personal care attendants or travel companions, during travel.

  9. Availability of specialized accommodations, such as quiet rooms or sensory-friendly spaces.

  10. Availability of resources such as social stories, visual schedules, etc. to help prepare and familiarize with the travel itinerary.

Happy Beach Trip
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