November 3, 2023
Engaging in outings can evoke both excitement and trepidation for individuals living with dementia.
Vitalia North Olmsted wants to address these concerns by offering valuable insights to transform your outings into enjoyable, stress-free experiences.
Not every location is a good place to take someone living with dementia. Specific areas can have large crowds or a lot of overstimulating noises and visuals. Try to find places for outings that are in a more relaxed setting, places that can be a more adaptive setting for your loved one.
A great way to prepare for an outing is to ensure everyone is on the same page. Remember to talk to your family or friends who are joining you. Having everyone understand where your loved one is in their journey will help keep the outing pleasant. Helps your loved one from needing to meet any expectations. They can enjoy their time with you!
A dementia-friendly business card is a great tool you can find online or create yourself. If you are going to a restaurant, these cards are great to hand to a hostess or waiter. So they can treat your loved one with patience and respect and help take the stress off you. Suppose your loved one does or says something that falls out of the everyday norm. Another terrific way to prepare for an outing is to bring extra supplies and clothes. Having the supplies you need can help smooth over the experience for your loved one.
If something unexpected happens, keeping a calm demeanor is essential. Our loved ones can sense our stress, which will lead to the direction of how they will respond. Staying calm and maintaining a positive attitude can assist in refocusing your loved one. This journey is not always easy, so having the unexpected can sometimes be jarring. Remember to take time for yourself, too.
We aim to provide you with valuable, practical information to support your journey in caring for someone with dementia through love and understanding. It’s crucial to acknowledge outings may only be suitable for some. Each person living with dementia is unique, emphasizing the importance of tailoring the experience to their individual needs and preferences. The goal should always prioritize the well-being and comfort of the individual. By practicing patience, understanding, and compassion, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for them while also reducing stress for yourself.
VITALIA® North Olmsted in North Olmsted, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. John West Shore with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Crusher’s Stadium, Crocker Park, North Olmsted Senior Center, North Olmsted Library, Bradley Woods Park (Cleveland Metro Parks), and Cleveland Zoo.
