How Dementia Care Can Help with Senior Outings
Visiting Angels provide dementia care for seniors in Bangor, ME, and the surrounding areas.
You're not alone if you dread taking your loved one on outings.
Going on outings with your Alzheimer's-affected loved one is one of the most challenging aspects of caring for them. Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's disease may exhibit embarrassing or strange behaviors in public, making it difficult to take them out without causing a stir. Utilizing proper dementia care can ease the stresses that your family may feel.
Why Are Outings Beneficial?
Getting out into the sunshine and socializing are beneficial.
- Boost their spirits
- Reduce the amount of stress they are experiencing
- Improve their sleeping habits
- Make positive use of their energy.
- Make new memories.
Reduce their feelings of solitude
Develop a stronger sense of self-confidence with proper dementia care (affecting self-esteem, confidence, and happiness.)
Both caregivers and seniors benefit from outings. So, take advantage of these points to make your outings as seamless and fun as possible.
Prepare for your outing with a senior family member
Prepare a bag
It's always a good idea to be prepared, they say. Yes, it is correct! Fill a tote bag with supplies and items your loved one would enjoy.
Look for places that are Alzheimer's-friendly.
Many businesses are not sympathetic when your loved one exhibits socially unacceptable conduct, and instead of offering you aid, they ask you to leave. Choose to visit companies whose personnel have taken special training to help them understand and assist persons with dementia and their caretakers, even if it isn't always practicable.
Consider how your senior loved one will act in the location you intend to visit. With all the sights, noises, and people, crowded settings (such as restaurants, movie theaters, and amusement parks) can be overwhelming. Make an informed decision about your travel destination and consider Visiting Angels dementia care for your needs.
Have your explanations ready.
When an adult exhibits unusual behavior such as removing clothing or shouting aggressively, others may naturally become uncomfortable and stare. Plan for how you'll handle these scenarios
Maintain your composure.
It's simple to become agitated alongside your partner. You're already working hard to care for them, and adding an outing to the mix will only add to your stress.
However, it is critical to maintaining your composure. If your stress levels begin to rise due to the outing, take three deep breaths, tell yourself that you're doing your best, and continue quietly.
Let your loved one know ahead of time.
Some dementia-affected seniors dislike having their schedules disrupted. Take your time in preparing them. Tell your loved ones when and where you're going, what they may expect when they arrive, and anything else that would make them feel more at ease.
Get the timing correct.
As their caretaker, you're aware that your loved one performs better at different times of the day and week. Schedule you’re outing for when your loved one's spirits are high and they're in good spirits. Ascertain that the trip's duration will not overwhelm them.
With these guidelines, you'll be well prepared the next time you need to go on an expedition with your elderly loved one who has dementia or Alzheimer's. Contact Visiting Angels of Bangor for more information about our dementia care services and how they can help your family.
