Walks With My Father

I have always enjoyed taking walks with my father. As we continued to walk here, there, and everywhere, I was fortunate to experience and observe the benefits of taking walks with him during his journey with Alzheimer's. Walking was one of my father's favorite pastimes, and it didn't stop even as his memory began to decline.

As a young girl, I recall how Dad always found time for a walk, until his passing. Whether it meant a trip into the woods or a walk around the block, we got our steps in more ways than one. As always, taking walks with my father alongside his Alzheimer's helped him embrace his sense of wonder and gave him dignity and grace.

The joy of taking walks with Alzheimer's

Taking a walk with someone who has Alzheimer's can be a time for conversation or quiet. It can also be a time to enjoy the sun and have fun, observe nature, and appreciate everyday surroundings. Taking walks with my father was always an opportunity to experience joy and togetherness, and our walks always included conversation.

As Dad's Alzheimer's progressed and he experienced challenges with his mood and demeanor, I did my best to find the bright side. I allowed myself patience and grace, knowing the challenging moments would not last forever.

Enjoying taking walks with my father during his journey with Alzheimer's wasn't just about passing the time. Our walks were for many reasons. Even as Dad's mobility and balance became somewhat affected as the disease advanced, we still took walks, but in a different form.

On our walks, Dad always found himself a walking stick or wrapped his arm around mine for extra support. I loved how we held each other and put one foot in front of the other.

Preparation and planning for a walk

When Dad and I went for walks, I varied our routes. We walked in local parks, on paved sidewalks, and around the block to his home.

Dad and I walked on marked paths in state parks, and on rainy days, we ventured to the nearest shopping mall. Some days, we created a path through the house and at his assisted living home. Dad and I liked walking, near or far; we often drove to our route and always carried a backpack of walking supplies.

The benefits of taking walks with Alzheimer's

Walking has numerous benefits. It is a healthy exercise that supports heart health, helps maintain body tone, promotes weight loss, and reduces stress and depression.

A daily walk helps increase mobility and aids digestion. Taking a daily walk outside allows opportunities to breathe fresh air and offers a change of scenery. For my father, planning a walk brought consistency to his daily schedule and was an activity he looked forward to each day.

Things to consider before your walk

When walking with an Alzheimer's patient, consider how far your loved one can walk and plan rest breaks along the way. Plenty of parks have benches so that you can add a walk break. Many of these benches are located in scenic observation spots, so if you have a pair of binoculars, bring them along.

If your loved one has a favorite park, you can include it as part of their walk routine. There is always something new to see on a walk.

Safety and location

When planning a walk, ensure the location is a place you know well and have tried out. Ensure the parking area is accessible to a sidewalk or smooth-surfaced path.

Flat, smooth surfaces are always the best option if your loved one is unstable and uses a cane or walker. These types of walk surfaces are also helpful to those who need access to a wheelchair or motorized scooter.

Some parks offer handrails and boardwalks with large trail maps. A Google search of your area will provide detailed information and reviews about the parks and what to expect upon arrival.

A backpack of essentials

Dad and I always carried a backpack of essentials on our walks. Inside was a water bottle, a bag of trail mix or crackers, and a bottle of insect spray. When Dad began wearing pull-ups, we added a pair to the bag and some wet wipes.

I also packed a couple of Ziploc bags for our collections of things Dad liked best. Our bags included acorns, small pebbles, autumn leaves, and bird feathers. I always brought my fully charged cell phone and let others know our location and plan before walking.

What to wear

I ensured that my father wore comfortable clothes, such as warm or lighter-weight sweatpants, and, depending on the weather, an appropriate jacket. I also ensured that his shoes provided sturdy ankle support and traction to lessen discomfort and the possibility of slips or falls.

As you step out the door

Before departing for your walk, ensure everyone has visited the bathroom. Even if your loved one insists they don't need to go, encourage them to try.

If your loved one wears pull-ups or liners, plan to change into a fresh pair before your departure. Always communicate clearly and often so that your loved one is prepared for the walk. Speak consistently and in clear, simple steps. "We are going for a walk in the park."

Not all parks have bathrooms, but you can check where they are along your route by downloading or referring to a park map. Porta-potties are often small spaces for two, but a handicapped-accessible one should work well if you need to change out of a pull-up or support a loved one with toileting.

Walks, talks, and happiness

With proper planning and support, taking walks with a loved one with Alzheimer's can be an enjoyable experience. Asking a friend, family member, or caregiver to join you is always a plus. Before you head out the door, check the weather forecast and have another plan for an outing in case a walk doesn't work out. Take a deep breath and embrace what is to come.

I wish everyone safe and happy walks. As you step outside, take the time to take it all in. Happy trails.