It's a long story but she is currently in WY with no family in a nursing home. We will be moving her to a facility here in WI closer to her kids, grandkids, siblings, etc. I'm wondering if it's easier to fly her home, although I don't think a direct flight is available, or drive her straight to WI, a 17 hour drive. She doesn't sit still, constantly roams the halls where she is now and has sundowners
I've seen a couple of threads around here where someone had an issue similar to yours about transporting someone with dementia a great distance. With advanced dementia, a medical transport might be better than a commercial flight. Plus, having a layover or transferring sounds like a nightmare with a dementia patient. Are there available funds for a private transport?
How is she functioning right now? My concerns would be that she would not do well with the crowds, strange people, strange noises, people touching her at security, turbulence, etc. What if she becomes frightened, panicked and unmanageable on the plane? It could get risky, since, airlines may not accommodate someone who's acting in a way they consider unsafe. Then what?
Have you spoken with the staff who work with her everyday? I'd ask what they think about air travel for her. I'd ask how they find her when they transport her somewhere in the car.
Driving may also prove a challenge. Maybe, someone who has done that will chime in here and describe their experiences. I'd keep in mind that everyone is different though.