Eventually, we will all have to face the realities of aging. While in the minds of many, age may be nothing but a number – and a can-do, healthy, positive state of mind is a beautiful thing – the reality is that less energy, higher cholesterol, aching joints, and more, go along with aging. The trick is to go with the flow and learn how to age gracefully.
There is no reason why you can’t have fun as you reach and enjoy your golden years. Particularly if you live in a retirement community, no matter how resort-like it may be, it’s always good to get out and enjoy Mother Nature with friends and/or family. Just like when you go camping.
If the great outdoors appeals to an aging loved one, you might want to brush up on what needs to be planned for and considered when camping with retirement age adults. Being of a certain age affords your loved one the time they may not have had available when they were raising children and working for a living. But while camping can be beneficial for older adults and provide an adventure, they have to stay away from potential troubles like starting a fire, gathering firewood, pitching a tent, sleeping on the ground, etc.
In the interest of camping with your retirement age mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, etc., here are some key considerations to remember…
Medication and Food
Bringing medication and the right kinds of food are crucial to a successful camping trip. If your loved one has maintenance medication and/or diet restrictions, make sure you have the right kinds of snacks, meals are all accounted for, and, for the entire camping trip, there is enough medication.
In case something goes wrong, well ahead of time, take note of nearby hospitals, clinics, drugstores, etc. Always have a backup plan in case medication gets lost, runs out, an illness/injury occurs, etc., and always bring a first aid kit.
Take It Easy on Packing
Don’t overpack and remember that if you don’t own something or forgot it, you can probably rent it. This can apply to snowmobiles, fishing gear, hiking equipment, camping gear, and more. Forgot your sweatshirt? Shop around town for some souvenirs and, while you’re at it, grab a sweatshirt. Make it an enjoyable local excursion.
Campgrounds that Are 55+ Friendly
Numerous market segments are catered to by today’s wide array of campgrounds. Whether you like it luxurious, leisurely, kid-oriented, or if you really want to “rough it”, there’s something for everyone. In fact, for retirement age or older camping enthusiasts, there are RV parks and campgrounds which specify “Age 55 and Over Restricted”.
That said, be sure, before you start driving to your location, you’ve checked out the campground inside and out.
Activity Planning
With activity planning in mind, consider the limitations/physical health of your loved one. Adventurous, strenuous activities requiring stamina and strength may not be appropriate. While camping, however, there’s still lots to do. Just make sure everything is within the capabilities of your loved one. Consider exploring local sites, restaurants, and more. Take short, leisurely hikes. Go fishing. Enjoy bird watching. The possibilities are numerous.
Recreational Vehicle Rental
An RV is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Not everyone owns one, however. Fortunately, that’s not a problem because there are numerous companies that rent RVs. This is preferable to pitching a tent for many people!
When They’re Not Camping, Your Loved One Can Reside in Style at Regency Pointe
Regency Pointe offers you and your loved one a stress-free, enjoyable future. Let your loved one’s golden years benefit from the retirement living options we provide: independent living, active senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care. Whatever the needs and or capabilities are for each of our community members, we provide appropriate services and care.
