Tips for a Successful Outing with Someone Living with Dementia

Engaging in outings can evoke both excitement and trepidation for individuals living with dementia. 

It’s natural for caregivers to wonder:

• Where should I take them? 
• What preparations are necessary? 
• What items should I bring? 
• What if something goes differently than planned? 

Vitalia Westlake wants to address these concerns by offering valuable insights to transform your outings into enjoyable, stress-free experiences.

Not every location is a good place to visit with someone living with dementia. When planning an outing, be mindful if your loved one has visited this location before. Will this place be excessively crowded or noisy to the extent that it could overstimulate your loved one? If so, does this location offer a quiet, private space you can visit if your loved one needs a break from everything around them? Does this place have an easily accessible restroom your loved one can navigate, even if they need assistance? Planning and taking into account the surroundings can transform taking someone living with dementia on an outing into a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

There are many things to consider when planning a successful outing. It is important to take cues from your loved one living with dementia. They have good days and some not-so-good. With all the best planning in the world, someone’s mood is not something we have the power to plan for. It can affect the success of the outing experience.

Make sure to list things you may need while on your outing, your “go bag,” I call it. Things to consider adding to your go bag are your loved one’s favorite snacks, beverages, comfort items, continence supplies, and even a change of clothes in case of an accident.

Life unfolds unexpectedly, occasionally presenting unanticipated challenges. My best advice is to join the journey of the person living with dementia and roll with it. Try to make the best out of every situation!

We aim to provide you with valuable, practical information to support your journey in caring for someone with dementia through love and understanding. It’s crucial to acknowledge outings may only be suitable for some. Each person living with dementia is unique, emphasizing the importance of tailoring the experience to their individual needs and preferences. The goal should always prioritize the well-being and comfort of the individual. By practicing patience, understanding, and compassion, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for them while also reducing stress for yourself.