Traveling and seeing new places is one of the great joys of life, and is something we still can do after we have a stroke. With a little bit of planning, you can still see the world. Keep these four tips in mind the next time you are planning to take a trip:
- Go on a practice trip: It is recommended that you start small. Don’t go on a big trip across the country right after your stroke. Rather, drive somewhere on your own in your car an hour or two away. Then, over time, work up to longer journeys. If you live in Washington DC, you might just go visit some friends an hour or two away in Philadelphia. If you are dependent upon your wheelchair still to get around, you will need to keep this in mind during your planning. For instance, getting into a restroom in some gas stations in a wheelchair can be a challenge.
- Bring your own chair: After your stroke, you may not need your wheelchair anymore, but you may not be able to walk for very long without rest. So, take a folding chair with you that can be folded up and carried in a bag. That way you can always sit down and have a rest as you are seeing the town.
- Choose a good hotel: After your stroke, it may take you longer to get dressed and to take care of bathroom needs. So, make sure the hotel works for you. That is, make sure the bathroom is accessible and has grab bars. Get a room on the ground floor to minimize walking and stairs. Make sure the hotel is near the attractions you want to see, and that restaurants are nearby.
- Train for a longer trip: If you are going to go on a trip for a few days or more, you will want to be ready physically for it. You will need to walk more than you usually do at home. Also, there will be more obstacles as you are seeing the town than what you are used to back at home. So, in the weeks before you leave, do plenty of walking.
Going on trips after a stroke is something you can easily do, with some simple planning.
If you are still sometimes using a wheelchair, you will probably be going on your trip with your friend or loved one. There is a broad selection of wheelchair stroke supplies available that can make your wheelchair more comfortable for you, especially on a trip. The Posey Leg Hugger will prevent your feet from always slipping off of the footrests, and getting tangled up in the wheelchair. The Posey Deluxe Lateral Arm Support helps to prevent lateral leaning, and will give you a convenient place to rest your arm on trips around town with your loved one.
With a bit of planning, you will be able to go on trips after your stroke and enjoy life, just as you always have.
