Guest Author - Cathy Brownfield

Kate’s parents never wanted a fuss over anniversaries, so when the silver one came along, there was no party. But just wait until the 50th, she thought.

At year 45, Dad’s health was seriously questionable. Kate and her siblings weren’t sure that Dad was going to make it to 50. They took Mom and Dad to a nice local restaurant for a family dinner in their honor. Five years later, the golden anniversary, they held a family gathering. Five years later, year 55, they have just celebrated with their parents and asked for another five years. For year 60, they want to do something special, like a cruise down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers on a riverboat with their entire family.

There are issues to overcome. Dad, at age 80, has COPD. Mom, 75, was diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease five years ago. But Kate insists they have to have focus points along the way, things to strive for.

“Mom and I took a road trip together about 10 years ago,” Kate said. “She wanted to go to Mackinac Island, Michigan. We went in October. It was beautiful. She has asked several times if we can go again. We’re shooting for the island’s lilac festival in the spring. It won’t be just Mom and me, though. Dad and my husband will go, too. And maybe my siblings and their spouses so we can make memories and contribute to making Mom’s and Dad’s wishes come true in these late years of their lives.”

There are some things to consider a traveling adventure with elderly parents, particularly when mind-altering disorders must be factored in.

Kate has been meaning to buy an identification bracelet or necklace for her mother. “Mom may be agitated when she’s away from her regular routine. I want to keep everything as normal for her as possible so she will enjoy the trip, too. I started to do some research online. I think the festival may be crowded and busy and that’s something we need to avoid. Maybe we should plan our trip before the tourist season opens. There will be fewer people and less distraction.”

Other of Kate’s concerns include how long Mom will be able to ride in the car and whether she will have difficulty with riding for a long distance. Will the doctor want Mom to take specific medications during the trip to keep her calm? What special needs should they request at the hotel? How will they handle unexpected incidents that may crop up? Can they have an enjoyable trip without high stress? Without chaos?

Kate has decided that she will take Mom on a trip closer to home for an overnight to see how they do. If it works out OK, they’ll take the trip to the island.

“I want to see her wish come true with the least amount of problems,” Kate said.