If there’s one thing seniors cherish, it’s driving. Today’s seniors lived through the age of cheap gasoline and enjoyed road trips. Driving holds a strong positive association with our senior population and losing the ability to drive is correlated with senior depression. Giving up your keys doesn’t mean you have to stay at home. Mobility is still possible by traveling with your caregiver.
If you’re sick of doing crossword puzzles at home, talk to your caregiver about going out instead. Traveling with your caregiver goes well beyond errands and doctor’s appointments. Traveling with your caregiver is a great way to get out and about while still receiving the care you need. If you love the freedom of driving on your own schedule, an in-home caregiver can help!
In many cases, caregivers related to the patient can drive their elderly relative around for a change of scenery and to get some fresh air. If that is not an easy option, there are many transportation services such as access-a-ride which is subsidized and private services like Uber and Lyft which are easy, affordable options.
Let’s take a look at some places you and your caregiver can visit.
Visiting Your Relatives
When you stop driving, it becomes more difficult to see your relatives without relying on them to visit you. However, talk to your caregiver. If you enjoy visiting nearby friends and relations, your caregiver can accompany you. Once you have planned a time that works for everyone, you and your caregiver can make all the arrangements. You can even ask them to help you bake a little gift to bring along.
Meeting Friends in the Senior Center
Senior centers have been an integral part of any senior communities for many decades. These large halls provide plenty of room for events, catered lunches, and card games. Whether you’re there for a special occasion, meeting a group of friends, or want to spend some time with people your own age, there’s plenty for you and your caregiver to do at a senior center.
Attend Church or Community Activities
Many seniors are deeply involved in their communities and churches. The loss of mobility does not need to affect this involvement! Your caregiver can help you reclaim these activities and volunteer opportunities. Plan with your caregiver to ensure that the events you want to attend are within your daily schedule.
Join a Club or Class
One of the best ways to keep your mind active is to continue learning. Pick up a hobby that keeps your mind, and hands occupied. Hobby classes and craft classes are readily available at senior centers and throughout the community. Build birdhouses, knit a sweater, or learn the art of scrapbooking! There’s a wide range of crafts in which to participate, and your caregiver can easily shuttle you to and from classes.
Enjoy a Drive
Finally, there is a simple joy in “taking a drive.” Now that you’re the passenger, you have the freedom to look out any window you please. Ask your caregiver if she’s amenable to a relaxing country drive and engage in some leisurely recreational driving. Enjoy a quiet opportunity to listen to the radio, talk, or enjoy the view.
Professional Caregiving From David York Agency
Just because you don’t drive anymore doesn’t mean you have to stop going out. Just because you shouldn’t be behind the wheel doesn’t mean you have to give up on the freedom of travel. Escorting you is one of the core services of senior caregiving, and your caregiver should be glad to help you stay active and engaged in your community with a few car trips.
For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 908.373.5300. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. Our aim is to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, or LinkedIn.
