Don’t Skip A Family Vacation
It’s summer time – time to spend a week with your family. Head to the mountains for a much needed break. Or maybe head to the beach for a week of play in the sand with the kids.
Does that sound impossible?
For many caregivers of aging parents, the idea of a true vacation seems like an impossible goal. How can you leave your mom or dad? Who will make sure she gets to her doctor’s appointments? Who will cook for her? Who will make sure she’s taking her medicine?
If you’re working full time, your job gives you a few weeks of vacation per year. They understand the importance of giving you a break – a time to do something completely out of the ordinary, relax, and get into a new fram
e of mind. But with caregiving, there’s no one to take your place if you leave. Yet leaving and giving yourself a break is just what you need to do.
There are ways to give yourself that much needed break.
1. Have a brother or sister, aunt or cousin living in another state? Ask them to come out and sit with your mom for a week. They can be your mom’s “right hand” for a week – and give you your much needed break.
2. Depending on how well your loved one is doing, you may consider sending them to a family member or friend in another location. A week out of their own home and daily lifestyle may be a positive move for them as well.
3. Hire an in-home care giver to provide you with support. They are available for one or two hours a day, or can provide 24 hour care – whatever you need. Because they’re fully trained, you’ll be able to rely on their services, and put your mind at ease while resting on the beach.
