When you serve as the primary caregiver for your aging parent, indulging in “me-time” can become a forbidden idea. But it’s crucial as an elderly caregiver that you take time for yourself in order to recharge and relax.
As a caregiver, summer vacation doesn’t have to be stressful as long as you have a plan in place before you leave. There are many wonderful vacation options available for caregivers who need to get away, and none of them require a passport. As an elderly caregiver, it’s nice to know that you don’t necessarily have to hop on plane in order take a vacation, and if there were an emergency with your loved one, it would be easy to get home.
If You Live In The Northeast:
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The peaceful beach towns that make up Cape Cod are ripe with trees, tall grass and lots of silence, making it the perfect caregiver summer vacation spot. When you tire of the beach, check out one of the many lakes on the Cape, or rent a bike to explore the neighborhood. Take a quick trip into Provincetown to enjoy the festive atmosphere and hop on a boat to do some whale watching.
New Jersey/Delaware Shore
The Jersey Shore and the Delaware Shore have a lot more to offer than the popular MTV show might have depicted. If you’re looking for some respite from being an elderly caregiver, visit Cape May in New Jersey, which is at the southernmost tip of the state. Quiet and idyllic, Cape May can help you find the R&R you’re looking for. If you prefer Delaware, check out Assateague Island, which has a magnificent National Park and enjoy the beauty of the island’s wild horses from a distance.
If You Live In The South:
Hilton Head, South Carolina
With some of the best beaches in the country, Hilton Head has everything you might need for your vacation from elderly care. With 24 golf courses, 350 tennis courts and 250 restaurants to choose from, it’s almost hard not to enjoy yourself on the 12-mile island. A great destination for families or romance, Hilton Head is the ideal place to take a caregiver summer vacation.
The Florida Keys
Though the Florida Keys are part of the U.S., you’ll probably feel as though you are in the Caribbean when you set foot on any one of the five islands. With crystal clear blue water, white sandy beaches and a variety of activity options, the Keys are a great place to take a break from providing elderly care. A wonderful option if you love to scuba dive, take guided eco-tours or go fishing, you can’t go wrong with the Florida Keys.
If You Live In The Midwest:
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Located in Lake Huron, off the northern tip of Michigan, Mackinac Island boasts a rich history and small-town charm. The island itself has been named a National Historic Landmark and to further preserve its natural beauty, has banned motor vehicles. The only way to get to the island is via ferry, and once you’re there be sure to try their world-renowned fudge.
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
As an elderly caregiver, what could be better than indulging in some R&R on a beautiful lake? Lake of the Ozarks has all of the ingredients you need for a relaxing vacation: spas, golf, restaurants and the tranquility of over 50,000 acres of shoreline. Whether you decide to stay at a resort, a bed and breakfast or in the RV Park, there are plenty of recreational activities to participate in once you arrive.
If You Live In The West:
Any of the National Parks
It was hard to choose just one National Park to recommend, as all of them are unique and stunning. Whether you choose Yosemite National Park in California, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming or Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, you simply can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, you will definitely find it on the awe-inspiring nature hikes or while camping under a canopy of stars.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a dynamic city with a lot to offer--including a day trip out to Muir Woods, where you can connect with nature under a tent of giant Redwood trees. If you’re looking for more lively activities to try, visit Alcatraz prison or Fisherman’s Wharf. If you’re feeling up for a stroll, check out Golden Gate park to meander through the various gardens, take a boat out on the water or get a glimpse of the Bison and Buffalo that live in the park.
Peace of Mind
No matter where you choose to take a vacation, you’ll be able to enjoy it with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is safe with a Medical Guardian medical alert system.
