(This story is from our archives of NextStep Magazine. The Magazine has since been renamed to AIC With You)

Ready to Go Out!

Even though Janet’s mother uses a wheelchair, she brings her mother out just like she used to, and enjoys each outing with her! Such breaks in her daily routine are a way Janet recharges to stays mentally strong in caring for her mother. It also helps that her mother enjoys such outings as well.

She ensures that she packs the necessary items for her mother beforehand so they can go out with no worries. Check out what Janet packs in her outing bag!

What’s In Janet’s Bag?

1. Scissors and utensils. As my mother has difficulty swallowing food, the scissors is used to cut it into smaller pieces so she can eat more easily. I also prefer to bring my own utensils when eating out in case certain places do not provide them.
2. Shawl, hat, fan and umbrella. Be it rain or shine, hot or cold, I make sure that my mother is always comfortable. The umbrella is handy in both hot and rainy weather!
3. Insulated water bottle. I always carry a water bottle to keep my mother hydrated and for her to take her pills.
4. Medicine, cream and strap. My mother needs to take her pills after meals, so I have them packed in three separate containers – one for each meal. The cream helps with her dry skin while the strap is for her safety on the wheelchair. She can’t sit up well on her own.
5. Diapers, wet wipes and tissue. Caring for my mother’s hygiene is important too. So I will bring the items she might need to stay clean and fresh.

Other tips

• Do your homework before heading out. Check if the place has facilities such as lifts, ramps and handicapped washrooms. Call them up if you can’t find such information online. They are normally helpful.
• While out and about, be alert to your surroundings, e.g. use wheelchair brakes if the ramps are steep.

An Unsung Hero

When her mother had a stroke in 2010 and was diagnosed with dementia in 2014, Janet had no knowledge about either condition. At 54, Janet decided to resign from her job as a secretary so that she could take care of her mother full-time.

Having been a caregiver since 2010, Janet has found her rhythm and balance to caregiving. She places emphasis on caring for herself and being prepared so she can go the distance. She takes time to do the things she likes such as going for walks, exercising and attending educational talks. So she can do so, she arranges for her family members or neighbours to take care of her mother for the few hours she is away.

Although it can be challenging at times, Janet is determined to take care of her mother, with the support of her family and friends. Janet shared, “An excellent mother deserves my excellent care, and having the opportunity to take care of her is a real blessing. I don’t see taking care of her as a duty but as something I do out of my love for her.”