Caregiving Monday: Dealing with Vacation Time

With the summer quickly approaching, vacation time is also on the way.

As a caregiver, extra plans have to be made.

One thing the caregiver has to decide is what will happen with the person they are caring for.

So what are some options?help

  1. Take your loved one with you—this is always an option, but is this really what you want? Do you need a break from caregiving?  Is your loved one up to the travel and changes that are involved with vacation time?
  2. Call in reinforcements—are there others that are involved with the caregiving of this individual? Are there other siblings that can step up and help out while you are away?  Call on them and ask if they are able and willing to help.   One thing to decide is how you are going to react in advance if they are not willing to be of assistance.
  3. Sitters—check with a local agency or freelance sitters to inquire about their rates and availability. Be specific about how often you need assistance, for how long and what you would like to see accomplished during this time.  Is help needed with bathing or cooking or cleaning or transportation or all of it?  Be sure to let the sitter know up front.
  4. Respite Care—many nursing facilities have openings for a week or two, to provide respite care {or a rest} for the caregiver.
  5. Neighbors and friends—if none of the other options are available, try asking friends and neighbors if they would be willing to help out while you are gone. Many will be happy to help if asked.

 

How do you deal with vacation time?

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