Home Care in Indianapolis, IN – A Fun Trip to the Zoo Might Be Just What Your Elderly Loved One Needs
Coming face-to-face with new animals, new exhibits and basically anything new can have tremendous benefits for seniors. Since the weather has turned warmer, it may be time to consider taking a trip to the zoo. For any senior who enjoys visiting the zoo, if they require some type of home care services, it’s a good idea to make special arrangements and provisions ahead of time.
Things to think about before the trip.
Transportation is certainly something to consider. Maybe the senior will be riding with the in-home care provider, especially if that is a service that is part of their job description. They also need to think about admission. The senior shouldn’t expect the caregiver to pay for their own ticket. The senior or their family member, if they are going with them, should pay for any home care services going along on this excursion.
Bathroom breaks on a long trip. If the zoo is an hour or more away from the senior’s home, they may need to use the facilities as soon as they arrive there. Figure out where to park, where the entrance gates are, and where the nearest restroom facility is. If necessary, it may be best to stop at a public restroom before arriving at the zoo.
Animal interactions.
Whether the senior owns a pet or not, having interactions with animals can be incredibly beneficial.
Just watching animals, making contact with them, and interacting with them can help to lower blood pressure and boost feelings of happiness and well-being, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Most zoos offer interaction programs where guests can spend time directly with the animals. This is a great opportunity for a senior, as well as a younger individual, to learn more and gain the experience of spending direct time with an animal.
It’s also a good idea to pay attention to the descriptions about the animal, their natural habitat, and other information. Reading about all these things and absorbing that information can boost mental stimulation for the senior.
Make sure you pay attention to the forecast. Weather can have a direct impact on a trip to the zoo. If the forecast is for storms, it might not be the best time to visit the zoo with an elderly individual. Home care services would likely pay attention to any forecasts and express concerns ahead of time.
It’s also important to bring along an extra layer of clothing, even if it is scheduled to be warm outside. The temperature can fall when the sun begins to set and if the senior is enjoying their time and wants to spend more of it at the zoo, it may be necessary to put on one of these extra layers.
The caregivers at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is an elder care agency providing quality and affordable home care in Indianapolis, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.
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