Day trips require preparation no matter who is in the car with you. Teenagers may need water and snacks, the baby needs diapers, and everyone may need a change of clothes – just in case. Thoughtful consideration of what may be needed over the course of the day is necessary, and planning is essential for an anxiety-free day. This is especially true when preparing a day trip with a loved one with dementia. Senior citizens have specific needs, both physical and emotional. Dementia patients may get confused and scared if they are in unfamiliar surroundings.
Dementia Patients Need Special Consideration
One of the most important things you can do when planning a day trip with a dementia patient is to involve them in your planning process. Depending on how far dementia has progressed, your loved one is likely experiencing a frightening loss of control. Letting them provide input as to what they may want to do throughout the day can help them to have more of a sense of independence and control. The joint planning process may also minimize their confusion when their daily routine is suddenly interrupted. Have a conversation about your plans, let them make choices as to your destinations, and listen to their input. This may make leaving their home a little less distressing.
Traveling with dementia patients – even for just one day – requires planning around their current mental and physical capability. It may be tempting to bring them someplace they always loved in the past, but it may no longer be feasible. For instance, many seniors used to love going to the beach – but walking through sand is no longer possible. Think about their abilities, and brainstorm as to a good compromise. Venice Beach has a boardwalk along the beach, and you can walk with them (with a wheelchair or walker if necessary) to let them enjoy the view.
They may have once enjoyed going to the botanical gardens, but it may be too strenuous to walk around anymore. Do some proactive scouting of some nearby locations to find a beautiful place in the shade to sit and enjoy the trees, flowers, and water.
Flexibility is essential when spending the day with dementia patients. There is no way to predict what their mood, reactions, or comfort level will be once you get on the road. Manage your expectations, be adaptable, and don’t be offended if your loved one doesn’t love what you have planned for them. The primary goal of this day out is to spend quality time together and to give your loved one some variety in their life. If the day doesn’t go as expected, go with the flow and enjoy each moment.
Prepare for Issues
If you aren’t already involved in the daily medical care of your loved one, speak to their main caregiver to understand medication dosage as well as dietary requirements and restrictions. Be prepared with snacks and drinks that your loved one enjoys and is allowed to have. This will help if they get hungry, need to be soothed, or need some energy.
If your loved one is not used to being outside their home or residence, consider bringing a walker or wheelchair – even if they do not normally utilize their mobility aids. It can be difficult to estimate how far they will be able to walk, or when they may get too fatigued to continue. If they get disoriented or confused, they may get anxious and panic. Walkers or wheelchairs provide physical stability which translates to a sense of overall safety.
With a little planning, day trips with dementia patients can be fun and fulfilling for both of you. Be sure to check with the administration at their assisted living or memory care facility to get their thoughts and recommendations.
If you have a loved one who is experiencing early signs of dementia and you are looking for a memory care residence in The Villages, we invite you to consider A Banyan Residence.
