As a family caregiver you know how important it is for your aging parent to stay as active and engaged as possible to help them maintain their health, well-being, and quality of life as they age in place. Sometimes, though, the physical activities that your parent does as part of their routine can become tedious and they may not be as eager to participate in them. By finding new and exciting activities you can help your parent feel more motivated to stay active, and together you can make meaningful memories that you can treasure well into the future.

June 3 is National Trails Day. This is the ideal opportunity for you to get out of the house and explore the world around you as a way to both keep your parent active, but also to stimulate their mind and boost their mental and emotional health and well-being. Heading outside for a hike burns calories, strengthens muscles, and supports balance while also giving your parent important exposure to sunlight and the chance to make treasured memories.

 

Use these tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable outing for your loved one on National Trails Day:

• Choose your route carefully. Before you head out for your hike, review all of the hiking trails in the area to find the one that is best for your aging parent. Keep in mind your parent’s physical challenges and limitations and choose a trail that will be accessible and safe for them while also ensuring that they will get benefit from the exercise.
• Consider the return. When planning your parent’s hike, make sure to keep in mind that you will need to hike back to your car or other starting point. Do not plan a hike so far that they will get tired by the time that you reach the halfway point.
• Pack effectively. Make sure that you have access to all of the items that you might need when on the trails with your elderly parent. This includes non-perishable food, water, a first aid kit, bug and sun protection, extra socks, and emergency supplies, as well as any medical devices that they might need. Ensure that you have a cell phone or other mobile device with a full charge available for emergencies.
• Dress properly. How your parent dresses can make a tremendous difference in your parent’s comfort and health on your hike together. Remember to choose layers so that it is easier to adjust their temperature as they hike. They should also wear shoes that are supportive, well-fitting, and comfortable, as well as socks that wick moisture. Encourage them to wear a hat to block the sun from their faces and their eyes.

 

If you have found that your parent’s needs and challenges are more extensive than you can handle comfortably, or your own limitations or schedule have made it so that you are not managing your parent’s needs in the best way possible, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting home care for them. A care provider can be an exceptional way to ensure that your elderly parent’s individual needs are met in the way that is right for them and on the schedule that is best not just for them, but also for you as their primary caregiver. This can enable your senior to live a lifestyle that is more active, engaged, and fulfilling, while also permitting you to take a step back and focus more energy and attention on other obligations in your life, easing your stress and supporting a better quality of life for both of you. When it comes to helping your elderly parent achieve and maintain better health through staying more active, this care provider can be a valuable source of support and encouragement. By helping them to find activities that they enjoy and providing assistance and encouragement while participating in these activities, a care provider can help your parent to live a more active and healthy lifestyle throughout their later years.

If you or an aging family member are considering hiring caregiver services in Alpharetta, GA, please contact the caring staff at Caring Companions of Atlanta 470-514-5954 .

We provide quality non-medical services to our clients in their homes or in a facility if that’s where they live. Our staff is available for care plans for extensive care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or as little as 4 hours per visit. Reach out to us, and one of our outstanding administrative staff will meet with potential clients to assist them and their families in designing an effective, personal plan of care.