Just because your senior needs home care services, doesn’t mean you have to stop attending your favorite (and your senior’s favorite) sporting events! With a little extra planning and preparation, attending the big game can still be a successful and incredibly fun shared experience for both of you. Whether you are going to see the local high school team play their rivals, or you want to go to your alma mater and see the Razorbacks put the smack down, you can make it happen.
Before you do anything else, get a realistic assessment of your senior’s physical and mental ability. Can they walk from the parking lot to the stadium? Are stairs going to be difficult? Will they be disoriented by the loud noise of the crowd? If you need help to decide, there are professionals able to help you with the assessment. Here are some tips on what to bring to help assure you will have a great time.
1. Handicapped placard. If you already have the handicapped designation on your license plates, you don’t have to worry about this one. If you don’t, consider applying for the hang tag. You will need to have your senior’s doctor fill out the form, which they can do online, and the tag will be mailed to you. Eligibility is determined by how far you are capable of walking. If you require the use of an assistive device, such as a wheelchair, you will qualify. You also can qualify if you have a heart or lung condition that prevents you from walking more than a short distance.
2. Sunscreen. You must be sure, if this is an outdoor event, that you have provided protection from the sun. A good sunscreen is essential, and you should re-apply it every two hours. Use a lip balm that protects from the sun. A senior is very susceptible to severe sunburn, so don’t risk it. In addition to the sunscreen, bring a good hat with a brim and some sunglasses, and even consider a long-sleeve shirt as a barrier that protects from the sun’s rays. If your senior is wearing sandals, don’t forget to protect their feet with sunscreen or socks.
3. Water. It is very important to provide adequate hydration—for anyone! This is especially true if it is a hot or windy day. Bring extra water for the trip to and from the game and make water available during the game.
4. Medicine. If the person you provide senior care for takes medicine, make sure you bring the dose they will need while away from home. Also, bring OTC pain meds just in case, and maybe an antacid if you intend to indulge in nachos with jalapenos at the game!
5. All-weather gear. Check the weather before you leave home. If there is a chance of rain, it would be a good idea to bring an umbrella and maybe raincoat. If it is going to be cold, a heavier jacket might be required, or even a lap blanket.
6. Personal care items. If your home care service includes personal care assistance, bring extra Depends and wipes with you. You might also want to consider a change of clothes just in case.
7. Camera. You will want to post at least a couple of selfies of you and your family member enjoying the game but, if you want a closeup of your favorite players, don’t forget your camera with a good lens.
Check ahead before you go to any sporting event. Each of them has different rules about what can be brought in. Some venues do not allow any carry-ins, while others will allow you to bring something in, but it must be contained in a see-through ziplock bag. There are usually exceptions for the disabled. Most larger stadiums have handicapped seating for a disabled person and one companion. Check it out before you go so that you can be compliant for general seating, or you can take advantage of the disabled seating.
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