When someone needs assistance with their daily activities in the home, it can appear that they never leave home. In some cases, due to a chronic illness, infection concerns, or mobility issues, a person may not be able to go out much.
However, a professionally-trained caregiver can become a companion outside of the home too and help with activities when away from home.
Hit the Road…Safely
Traveling by plane, car, or train can be complicated and require many stops along the way that require the assistance of a caregiver. Simply pausing for a bathroom break safely may necessitate help from someone else while handling luggage and important papers too.
Before embarking on a trip, stop to consider all of the little ways in which a caregiver helps around the house daily or weekly. Then, weigh the risks of not having the caregiver along for a trip. Will there be walking and inherent fall risks? Are all bathrooms accessible with grab bars? Are medication reminders needed daily?
A trusted caregiver with the proper training can be of help in these new settings and make a big trip more enjoyable as well as safe.
The Benefits of Getting Out
Maybe taking a big trip is out of the question, but it is possible to leave the home for a short time with the help of a caregiver. This variety in the day can be meaningful for someone who’s activities have become limited as a result of age or illness.
Not every outing with a caregiver has to be a chore, such as a trip to the grocery store or a visit to the doctor’s office. A caregiver can be there for a favorite neighborhood or scenic drive, a walk in a park, to be there during a catch up with an old friend so that things go smoothly with food preparation or light housekeeping. Each of these experiences can be an opportunity to make new memories and break up mundane routines.
This summer, or anytime of year, consider doing something new beyond home with the support of a caregiver for yourself or a loved one who could benefit from new surroundings.
