My mom has now been in MC for almost 2 years this August (2022). She has moderate Vascular Dementia. From the very beginning, I would pick her up and take her to lunch, to my house, the mall, and Dr. visits. It became a normal for her. The staff even knew she needed to get out MC for awhile. I know everyone means well, but remember every person suffering from dementia is different. Just yesterday, I picked her up, we got an ice cream cone, and we went for a country drive. That lifted her spirits; to get out in the fresh spring air. She returned to MC content with the staff asking if she had a good time. The staff never have a problem with her after outings. I think each person with dementia handles this differently, but I just wanted to say this for those who wonder if their loved one could handle getting out once in awhile. It probably helped that I started doing this right from the start, when it was allowed throughout Covid times. In my mom's situation, this is what keeps her upbeat. She gets down when she's cooped up for weeks.
Half the time I go to pick her up I find her in the dining room eating, call her when I leave home to remind her, she forgets in that short of time, like 1/2 hour.
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Spending time together, somewhere different can bring a little fun & excitement to both of you ☺️☺️
For others, they need the routine & familiar territory to feel safe. Outings cause them & their caregiver much stress, so better avoid.
I have not been able to take my LO out myself for a long time - due to mobility, continance (lack of, 2x) & behaviour issues. It was nice to spend some time in the fresh air, doing something different... but needs increased too much. She does goes out but requires arranged carer/aide (other than me) + equipment etc. I don't know of she has the insight to realise why I stopped.
No situation is the same for everyone, that's for sure. Thanks for sharing your perspective and kudos to you for getting mom out & about after being cooped up for weeks! So glad it works well for both of you, that's a blessing.