The Hidden Benefits of Going out for a Drive.

Today was Mr S and I's first session together.

Mr S lives in a care home. I have started visiting him with the opportunity for companionship and to have trips out of the care home.

Due to reduced mobility, we firstly had to ensure that Mr S was able to safely transfer from his wheelchair to the car. ✔️

Then we went for a drive around the local area.

Because it's not an area I know too well, Mr S gave me a lovely guided tour, explaining what all the buildings and businesses are now and also what they used to be when he was younger. He got to see the area in which he lived prior to moving in to the care home again and he told me plenty of stories about his wife and old friends of his.

But most importantly Mr S had:

- meaningful conversation, helping to reduce social isolation and loneliness.

- some fresh air and the opportunity to be in the big wide world outside of his room in the care home.

- a chance to stay cognitively active and the opportunity to use his long term memory by having to think through and provide me with directions.

- increased physical activity by being supported to walk to his wheelchair and to complete car transfers.

- a opportunity for success and a win! (he was initially not sure whether he could do car transfers but actually he did it with ease).

- an opportunity to reminisce which is known to help induce positive thoughts and support well-being.

Take home message:
Dont under-estimate the benefits of having the opportunity to engage in meaningful occupations! Even if it's just a drive around the local area.