Let’s face it: care for the elderly doesn’t come cheap. Research published in the Better at home report shows that 69% of families worry about affording good quality care for their loved ones when the time comes. Further research by the Live In Care Hub (www.liveincarehub.co.uk) shows that many families are leaving it far too late to get their finances in order – and this is something that affects not just the elderly person in question, but their families too.
One aspect of life this can affect is your ability to go on holiday, especially if you are limited by needing to find accessible accommodation. If the double-whammy of mobility issues and financial strain means going away on holiday is nothing more than a nice day-dream then enter “The Staycation”!
We can’t promise sun but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take a week “off” and spend the time “on holiday” but at home. There’s lots of advantages – you can keep surroundings familiar if your loved one might get confused, you have the equipment you need to deal with mobility issues on hand and, of course, it saves a lot of money. But what, actually, are you going to do?
Fish and chips at the seaside
Pack up a picnic and head to the nearest bit of coast for lunch. There’s something about the bracing sea air and buoyant optimism of resort towns that cheers everyone up. Even if you only make it a few feet along the prom before heading in search of a sit-in chippie you’ll all feel better for not having to wash up when you get home.
Night on the town
Most theatres and cinemas can provide easy access seating, and some are able to offer hearing aids, signed and audio described performances and other special assistance. Plus carers often get free or discounted tickets. So why not go out for dinner and follow it up by taking in a show? And if evenings are snoozy-times you could always see a matinee performance instead.
Have a spa day
Who says you have to go anywherefor pampering? Mobile spas will come to your home and offer foot massages, facials, manicures and other pampering treats. Or you could DIY your spa experience. Don’t forget the Prosecco Afternoon Tea to finish it off!
Visit a museum or stately home
Museums are usually a better bet for those with limited mobility as stately homes are often inaccessible – adding stair lifts or elevators simply isn’t feasible. Recognising this, however, most National Trust properties have video tours that you can watch and often have shuttle buggies from point-to-point around the estate.
Do some (window) shopping
Take yourself off to the nearest big shopping centre and enjoy a bit of window shopping, with perhaps the odd treat or two if finances permit. They’re warm, brightly lit, full of benches and usually have a shopmobility service who can provide you with a wheelchair or mobility scooter for getting around.
So there you have it – no need to pack your bags and you won’t forget your toothbrush!
