Summer is on its way, and we’re all making plans and getting excited about summer vacation. If you’re a caregiver, you might be left wondering how to plan your vacation now, and if you can even go. Here’s what you need to add to your planning checklist :
- Tell your friends/family: If you’re going with anyone else, or to visit someone, it’s time to update them on their loved one’s condition. Let them know what to expect, and how they can help you.
- Outings: If the loved one you care for is unaccustomed to stepping out of routine, give it a trial for both of you. Schedule more outings, even just for a meal or cultural activity, to see how youth handle it.
- Bookings: If you will be staying in a hotel or joining a tour, call before you book anything and ensure they will accommodate any health needs you require. If you want close access to a medical centre, ground floor, wheelchair access, dietary requirements, etc., make sure everything will be taken care of before you reserve anything. Also call your airline to ensure priority boarding or a ticket upgrade if you require it.
- On vacation: If your loved one suffers from a cognitive condition such as dementia, it is important to make them feel comfortable by still adhering to your home routine. Stick to familiar foods, familiar hours, and activities.
- YOUR vacation time: If you are a full-time caregiver, make sure you have a break yourself. Arranging respite care, so you can have some time away to visit loved ones or relax with friends, is easily done through a local caregiving service, and will ensure that you get the rest you need in order to be a great caregiver for your loved one. It is also possible that you can arrange a caregiver in the place you are visiting, so you’ll have time to go out and do the things you love to do on your summer vacation. You can look up local listings on the Internet, or, if you already employ a caregiver where you live, chances are the company has a widespread network that they can find a reputable caregiver where you’re headed.