VISITING ANGELS RESEDA, CA 818-206-8121
Facebook YouTube X

Tips For Planning Outings With Dementia Patients


Few things are sadder than watching someone we love slip into dementia. From the early symptoms of forgetfulness and disorientation to deepening memory loss and confusion, the person who is suffering must contend with the loss of capability and, ultimately, independence that this tragic condition brings.

While there may not be a cure, dementia symptoms can be addressed. One of the best ways to help your elderly parent or other loved one who is struggling with this ailment is to get them out of the house… but this can be difficult. 

Planning is Key

You generally don’t want to suggest spontaneous outings. Proper planning is the best way to avoid the pitfalls that could arise when taking your dementia patient into the outside world.

Between managing the expectations of the sufferer and handling the challenges that might arise, there’s a lot to think about. Whether you live in the 91356 or elsewhere, use this checklist to make sure things go smoothly.

Select a Familiar Destination
Familiarity is important to anyone with declining capabilities. Finding places in the Tarzana area where they have been before, especially those associated with pleasant memories, can create enthusiasm before the trip, and warm feelings during and after.

Choose a Low-Stress Activity
One common symptom of dementia is susceptibility to stress and anxiety. To prevent the confusion and irritability that can result from stressful situations, it’s best to schedule something relaxing. A park or public garden, a quiet spot for bird-watching, or a grandchild’s sporting event could be just the thing.

Prepare and Pack
Make sure anyone else involved in the outing is aware of the situation. Avoiding “memory tests” (innocent questions like, “remember the time that…” can trigger a stress reaction) and surprises (unexpected events often create anxiety) can help ensure a fun, easy time.

Bring along any supplies that might be needed. Water and snacks, extra clothing, necessary medications, and emergency documents are all good to have, even if they don’t turn out to be needed.
Be Ready For Contingencies
Dementia can make people unpredictable. Sometimes when you’re out with your loved one, things will go wrong. Don’t panic… be prepared with options in case things don’t go according to plan.

Choose Appropriate Activities

For early-stage sufferers, social activities like family gatherings or concerts can be a stimulating, beneficial experience. As their condition progresses, however, this kind of event can be too much… sensory overload sometimes causes agitation or distress.

Understanding where your loved one is at, both for the short-term and in the ongoing battle with dementia, is critical to selecting the best kind of outing. Whether it’s getting out and doing the kind of things they’ve always done, or just enjoying a quiet day in the beautiful Tarzana weather, you want to make sure you’ve chosen an activity that meets their current needs.

Get Caregiver Help 

Trying to do all this by yourself, while taking care of family and career demands, can be taxing. The good news is, you don’t have to go it alone!

A professional caregiver from Visiting Angels can help with all the details of getting your loved one with dementia out of the house. Don’t let your busy schedule prevent you from providing them with the vital benefits of well-planned outings.

Call us at 818-287-6101 to start the conversation today—there’s no charge for your complimentary assessment!

Serving Reseda, Granada Hills, Porter Ranch, Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood and throughout the San Fernando Valley area

Visiting Angels RESEDA, CA
16600 Sherman Way #278
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Phone: 818-206-8121
Fax: 818-742-6246
HCO #194700201

Serving Reseda, Granada Hills, Porter Ranch, Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood and throughout the San Fernando Valley area

Visiting Angels RESEDA, CA
16600 Sherman Way #278
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Phone: 818-206-8121
Fax: 818-742-6246
HCO #194700201