FEATURE ARTICLE:
Guilt-free Vacation Planning for Caregivers
by Carol Nelson, RN, BSN, MBA
If there’s ever been a time when family caregivers really deserve a break, it’s probably now. Caregivers finally have the opportunity to escape locked-down home life for a well-deserved vacation.
If only it were that simple.
It can seem unrealistic or impossible for primary caregivers to plan for time off when faced with all their responsibilities.
Those are understandable concerns, but It’s important to be able to rest and recharge, avoiding the threat of burnout and stress-related health problems.
A few suggestions:
Plan Ahead
Start making plans well in advance, even if you’re just thinking of a long weekend away. Compile a list of the kinds of assistance your loved ones require while you’re absent.
If your loved ones are reasonably independent and don’t need constant care, it might be sufficient to recruit a (fully vaccinated) family member or close friend to stop by occasionally to check on them.
If your loved ones can’t be left alone overnight, recruit two or three vaccinated individuals to take turns caring for them at night. Another option would be to hire in-home care while you’re gone.
Paid caregivers from certified companies can assist with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping and transportation.
Be Organized
Before taking a trip, be sure to organize important healthcare and emergency information.
This can include:
- Emergency contacts, such as relatives and family friends
- A list of the health care providers for loved ones
- Information about their preferred hospital and pharmacy
- Medical, dental and vision insurance cards
- A list of medications and prescriptions
- Legal documents including living wills, POAs
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
Safer
- Short road trips with members of your household
- Take flights with the fewest stops or layovers
Less Safe
- Longer trips by car or RV with many stops along the way
- Trips by car or RV with people who are not vaccinated or not from your household
Avoid
- Long-distance train or bus trips
- Traveling on a cruise ship or river boat
BE HAPPY!
The best preparation for time off is to let go of guilt and anxiety. Caregivers must be able to prioritize their own physical and emotional health. Taking a break will keep you healthier in the long-run. ■