It’s almost that time of year again. Time to trade in the cold Canadian winter for some much-needed vitamin D. Wherever you’re headed to this year, whether it be Florida or Costa Rica, you’ll want to make sure your loved one is taken care of.
But how can you make sure your loved one enjoys the break as much as you do? Consider these options.
First Ask Yourself, Can You Bring Your Loved One Along?
Sometimes, people assume they have to leave their elderly loved ones at home while they go on vacation. This certainly isn’t the case! While it may require a few extra preparations and accommodations, your senior loved one would probably like a vacation just as much as you do! If they’re capable of travelling and it’s safe to do so, extend an invitation. You’re never too old to soak up some sun!
There are, however, some circumstances that may prevent your loved one from travelling. If they require medical equipment they can’t travel with or they’re suffering from an illness that may worsen in unfamiliar locations, travelling may not be an option for them. In this case, you want to make sure they have the best experience at home while you’re away.
Can They Manage on Their Own While You’re Away?
How independent is your senior loved one? If they still live at home on their own, how comfortable are you with leaving them alone? If they’re fairly independent, but still require assistance with some day-to-day tasks, you may still want to consider additional help.
While you’re away, will your senior loved one be able to manage the following?
- Driving to appointments on their own
- Cleaning their house
- Making their own meals
- Cleaning up after their pets
- Maintaining proper hygiene
- Exercising regularly
If so, they may be fine on their own, but it may be wise to get someone to check in on them every day, even if it’s only for an hour. Otherwise, caregiver relief will be able to look after your senior loved one while you’re away. With hourly rates to 24/7 care, you’ll be able to find the ideal caregiver to look after your loved one while you’re away.
Consider Caregiver Relief
As your senior loved one’s primary caregiver, it’s possible you’ve never had to use the services of an in-home caregiver. As such, you may be unfamiliar with all the benefits that accompany companion care.
One of the most important benefits of a caregiver is that they provide emotional support to your loved one. While you’re around most of the time, while you’re away your loved one might not engage in any social activity. This can be detrimental to their wellbeing. Even if your loved one is fairly independent, companion care is still a positive benefit of caregiver relief for your loved one while you’re away.
Additionally, a caregiver can maintain the home. Whether it’s scooping the kitty litter, doing the laundry, or tidying the house, a caregiver will keep your loved one’s place in tip-top shape until you return.
Most importantly, a caregiver will ensure your loved one stays happy and healthy while you’re away. They can take your loved one to all of their appointments and ensure they take their medication. They can drive them to the grocery store and make their meals to ensure they maintain adequate nutrition in your absence.
The list of benefits truly goes on and on. Caregiver relief will allow you to properly enjoy your vacation, knowing your senior loved one is looked after and taken care of.
