Dear Eric >> My parents are in their late 80s, and I feel very fortunate they live independently and are financially secure. However, my mother has developed a mania for domestic and international travel that has caused my sister and me a lot of stress.

My mother has mobility issues and was diagnosed with cognitive decline, and her doctor advised her against solo travel.

When my schedule permits, I’ve gone along and seen her forget to eat meals, get confused about what city she’s in, struggle to walk during tours and spend half the day sleeping. Just last month, she couldn’t figure out online boarding for her cruise or how to find the car I’d booked when she docked in my city.

She stayed with me for several days afterward and barely left the couch, complaining frequently about how tiring the trip was. Less than two weeks later, she announced she’d planned another lengthy cruise to Asia next year; she’d clearly forgotten about her experience on the one she’d just taken. I was so upset I had to end the call.

At this point, what can we do? We don’t want to take away something she looks forward to, even if she doesn’t really enjoy it much at this point and offered to alternate taking her on three or four shorter trips each year. It didn’t help and my father, who is almost 90, threw up his hands long ago. Should we investigate cutting off her credit cards or other drastic steps?

— Globe Trotter

Dear Globe >> I know this is concerning and you want to do what’s right to protect your mom, but don’t grab the credit cards and the scissors just yet. Trying to disempower her may cause her to withdraw or cut you off. She’s going to need you in her corner going forward.

If it’s possible, you or your sister should go to the doctor with her and talk through exactly what the nature of decline the doctor is noticing. Compare what the doctor says to what you’re noticing and experiencing.

With the doctor and your mom, clearly lay out your concerns about travel and ask for the doctor’s advice. Even if the doctor just reiterates that solo travel isn’t advisable, ask for alternative strategies and ways of helping your mom to remember. You’ll want to make her a partner in her care.

With cognitive decline, it’s often necessary to have multiple conversations before a loved one makes a change. But continuing to be honest and compassionate with your mom, while also being insistent about the need to be more involved in her care, will help her feel empowered while also providing her the care she needs. The Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) has a wealth of resources and guidance to support you, as well.

Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com.