Summer is a season of exploration, relaxation, and quality time spent with family and friends. For many caregivers, however, the excitement of planning a well-deserved getaway often comes with an added layer of responsibility: ensuring that an aging parent or loved one is well-supported in their absence.
Whether your loved one lives independently, with assistance, or in a senior living community, taking the time to plan can make a significant difference in their well-being and your peace of mind. At Maplewood Senior Living, we understand the complexities that family caregivers face, and we’re here to help make the transition into your summer travel plans as smooth and worry-free as possible.
Here are some thoughtful steps to help you prepare.
Before leaving town, begin my making a comprehensive list of your loved one’s daily routines and care needs. This should include:
Having a clearly outlined care plan will make it easier to delegate responsibilities, coordinate with professionals, or determine if a short-term care arrangement is appropriate. If you loved one receives care at home, consider whether their existing support network is sufficient during your time away.
One of the most reassuring elements for both caregivers and loved ones is having a structured communication plan in place. Depending on your loved one’s comfort with technology, you might consider:
Make sure to leave a detailed itinerary with contact information and time zone differences, and identify a secondary emergency contact in case you’re unreachable.
If your loved one requires regular assistance with daily activities, respite care can offer a comforting and supportive environment during your absence. At Maplewood, our respite care program provides older adults with:
Respite care offers more than just logistical support – it can also provide emotional reassurance and an opportunity for older adults to enjoy a chance of scenery and engage with new people.
Notify your loved one’s healthcare providers that you’ll be away, and provide them with your travel dates and contact information. If your loved one has complex health needs, consider pre-scheduling any necessary appointments or arranging for visiting nurse services. Ensure that:
At Maplewood, our wellness teams are experienced in working closely with families to support continuity of care during transitions like these.
While logistical preparations are essential, don’t overlook the emotional side of your departure. Leaving, especially if you’re the primary caregiver, can feel unsettling for both you and your loved one. Small gestures go a long way in creating comfort, such as:
If your loved one is part of a senior living community like Maplewood, lifestyle directors and care teams can provide enriching experiences and social opportunities that bring joy and ease feelings of loneliness.
Before you depart, take a moment to reflect with your loved one. Reassure them that everything has been thoughtfully arranged, and express your confidence in their ability to manage while you’re away, or in the professionals supporting them. That reassurance, coupled with a warm goodbye and a planned check-in schedule, can go a long way in reducing anxiety for both of you.
At Maplewood Senior Living, we believe that caregivers deserve peace of mind when they take time to rest, recharge, or reconnect with family. Whether you’re seeking short-term respite care, additional support for a loved one already living with us, or expert guidance on how to manage summer travel logistics, our teams are here as trusted partners in care.
To learn more about how Maplewood can support your family this summer, contact your local community or schedule a private consultation with a member of our care team.
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