A Day Trip

Memory Lane

I remember as a child, when it was time to go for a day trip, my part was making sure I used the bathroom before leaving. I never had to pack anything or worry about what to eat. My mom took care of that. My dad made sure there was enough fuel in the vehicle and that it got its regular check up before any road trip.

As an adult, I realize there is so much more that goes into a day trip than just remembering that last pit stop. Meals, money, activities, time schedules, etc. all play a part in a successful day trip.

While a day trip may mean a state park or visiting another town, to the eldery, it can mean a doctor's visit or going shopping. For elderly parents who are no longer independent, a day trip can simply mean getting out of the house.

Pre-Preparations

Clear skies and warm temperatures proved a safe day for Dad to get out and go somewhere. It seemed to be an easy activity to do. We were going shopping and bringing him with us. However, before I would mention anything to Dad, I had some pre-preparations.

It sounds strange to prepare for the preparation, but when caring for an aged parent, there are two people I need to think of. Instead of putting off what I need to do while I take care of my dad first, I have learned that the best method is to take care of my things first. Afterward, I am able to fully focus on what my dad needs. Without the pre-preparation, I may be absent-minded when I need to be attentive the most - from the couch to the vehicle.

I have all my things ready to go (including the shopping list) by the door, beside my shoes. In addition, I pack some snacks and a drink for us both. Now I am ready to tell Dad and get him ready. He's excited and makes sure that he gets his last bathroom trip in before leaving the house.

The Exit

Our ride arrives and remembers to park as close as possible to the porch. Dad's balance isn't the best and he has a bad leg, that doesn't like to cooperate on steps. She makes sure the door is open and comes out to help him in.

I am helping Dad put on his socks and then walk with him carefully to the back door. He sits down as I help him with his shoes. Next is the jacket, even though it's warm outside, he gets cold sometimes. Together, our driver and I hold Dad on either arm and gently help him step out over the threshold. He grips the doorway for support. Another 5 steps and he'll be at the vehicle.

One step down off the porch and another step up into the vehicle. Next comes the seatbelt and gently, we close the door. We're ready to go. The ride seems long, but Dad doesn't complain. He sits with his eyes closed to combat the quick passing scenery outside his window. It helps avoid any sudden seizures too.

Shopping

We arrive and park as close as we can to the entrance. I'm off to find a wheelchair or motorized cart. By now, Dad is ready for a snack and enjoys it while he waits for me.

When I arrive with the cart, Dad informs me, he needs the bathroom. That will be our first stop. Dad enjoys the cart; he remembers the days of driving and can quickly navigate the cart with ease. We shop for our necessary items. Another bathroom trip before we check out the groceries.

I am thankful that the grocery store isn't very busy, though the music is constant. I wonder how it affects, Dad, but he assures me with the 3 different ringing tones in his ears, he doesn't really hear any music. We chat as he rides from the bathroom to the checkout lines.

We wait on the bench by the exit as our driver completes her shopping. If someone else is sitting on the bench, Dad strikes up conversation. Usually it's a man and they share about their injuries and how they got them.

Heading Home

We load up our groceries and get Dad situated back into the front seat. The bucket chair provides a stable environment for him. On the ride home, Dad may fall asleep. I can never really tell because he keeps eyes closed anyways.

Once we get home, Dad waits a little longer in his seat, while we unload the groceries. Then we get Dad out of the vehicle. It's been a long trip for him and he's tired. He barely gets his feet up high enough and we coax him gently and encourage him each step of the way.

Once inside, his shoes come off and so does his coat. Dad heads for the bathroom again before he lies down for an afternoon rest. The entire trip may take three hours and it uses up his energy for the rest of the day.

While Dad rests, I unpack the groceries and get ready to prepare supper.