I'm back in Taipei, unlike all my previous business trip, this time I'm here with my dad for some quality bonding time. My dad is currently in his twilight years, his health is Ok but he do face some problems like all elderly people. It became more of an issue especially when he is not the biggest fan in exercising, that cause him to lose some muscle mass and walking long distance is a problem. I'm pretty excited for the trip but at the same time worry for not knowing how my dad would adapt to it since is a 7 days overseas trip. I decided is worth giving it a try since suitable timing is hard to come by these days, and we could run out of time sooner than we knew.
I have also been reading up on things I should be aware of when taking an elderly on a trip and things that I have learnt first hand during the trip, and I wish to share it, so here are my two cents:
1.) Mental preparation for both.
I think is extremely crucial to be very much aware that the trip is not about myself, is not about a must see spot, a must eat food, it is not all about my dad as well. The idea for the whole trip is for both of us to spent quality time together in a manner we both feel comfortable and finding the right balance is crucial. Having that objective clarified, it makes things easier for both of us, so there's no pressure to rush to anywhere and make too tight of a plan up front. I decided to have my dad arrived first in Taipei, see how he is the first 2 days before calling to book a day trip to somewhere further. And I'm also very much aware that he will need his quiet time and space for himself.
2.) Accommodation
I decided to skip Xi Men Ding area all together, that hip area may not be that suitable for Elderly. I look on Airbnb but could not find anything suitable, some comes only with stairs and tiny spaces, also for 7 days I think without any cleaning would be troublesome, hence I stick to the convenience of a 4 star chain hotel with full amenities, there are wide selection of breakfast options, that suits elderly preferences, there are rams in case a wheel chair is required, thoughtful design for elderly such as safe bathrooms, working shower, the convenience of a concierge service if needed, and tip top cleanliness if someone is sensitive to dusty environment. Hence I would recommend that you take that into consideration before booking a hotel, it does cost quite a bit but it also helps to solve a lot of things.
3.) Transport
Taxi, Uber were my best friend during the time in Taipei. When my dad is comfortable enough to travel further, I book us a day trip transport with a guide that bring us to all major spot with the convenience of door to door transfer. That took a lot of stress away from me and I get to enjoy the places along with my dad. Keeping in mind that elderly do frequent washroom trip, the guide is also thoughtful enough to advice us how long the journey would be and if a toilet break would be recommended. My dad and I only did one MRT trip during the whole time when we were in Taipei which was the transfer from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei main city when we arrived on the first day.
4.) Food
I thought showing my dad Shilin night market and getting street snacks was a good idea, but I soon realize otherwise when we were there. Is not an easy feat for an elderly to be eating on the go while having to navigate through the crowd, it probably would give them indigestion, hence having a meal in a restaurant would probably be a better idea, a place where is comfortable spacious where they could see down and have a meal. And after that's done perhaps a stroll in the night market just for seeing would be enough for the elderly.
5.) Take Frequent Breaks if Can a NAP
Can't stress this enough, their energy level is no longer at our lever. They probably have a messy sleep cycle, which makes them hard to fall asleep and waking up either super early or super late.
They also likely to get tired easier, hence it is advisable that you have a break in between to grab coffee and sit for awhile before carry on with your journey. I also recommend to go back for a nap in the afternoon. I hit the gym in the morning when my dad is still asleep and sometimes in the afternoon while he is taking his nap. The mood and energy level gets better after waking up from his nap, then we could carry on with some night time activities. But most of the time we go for dinner and have a chill evening in the room where I watch some movies and dad catch up with news and scroll on short videos, yeah the elderly has that problem now.
I do think the break helps, I personally appreciate it, even thou I think I could carry on much longer before needing a break, but it helps me to sync with my dad and try to understand his rhythm.
Lastly I wish everyone happy travels~ Don't forget you're here for the good memories. Don't get frustrated if they do not seem to appreciate certain things that you do, they are probably adjusting themselves and that alone is a slow process and takes a lot of energy from their end. Positive encouragement for the elderly more often, doesn't matter the destination, take them out and encourage them to find passion and interest in life again.
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