I have been the primary caregiver for my grandmother for many years now. She moved in with us 3 years ago. My children want to go on a vacation this year. After discussing it with her she voiced she wants to go. She is a very healthy 98 y/o. No cognitive issues. She does have arthritis which limits her mobility. She uses a walker at home. She needs limited assistance with bathing. We will have a paid caregiver to assist on the trip and I'm also a nurse. My concern is the drive. It will be about a 10 hour drive to the Smokies. I don't want her to be uncomfortable.
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Another reason for frequent stops is to exercise everyone's legs, and help to avoid too much of an edema problem from hours of sitting.
You might want to find special places to visit that are a few hours apart - it's a good opportunity not only to get out and stretch everyone's legs but also to do some sightseeing so that the drive to and from isn't just a lot of blurred scenery, but leaves everyone with special memories of the trip.
Sometimes our elders can say they want to do something, but they really don't. They like the idea of doing it, but aren't thinking of the technicalities. If you feel she really wants to do this and you are willing to be happy with your activities being curtailed, then it is doable. Hope you have fun.
Mom, 90.5 yrs old loved to travel.......... not now! No desire whatsoever.
Took her to Yosemite National Park and all she would say is: are we going home soon?
Are we ready to go back to the B & B?
That was 2 yrs ago.
Now, she has no desire to travel anywhere.............
Take her, make great memories, play her favorite music, take pictures of all, enjoy the benefits of being able to get away, and no regrets and "we should haves".
M88
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