For decades, the 400-plus national parks encompassing over 84 million acres were unreachable for millions of Americans with mobility issues. Thankfully, recent advances at many national parks have made nature available for everyone. Let’s look at five accessible options for your next adventure. Grand Canyon A scenic drive accessibility permit allows visitors to access roads that are closed to regular traffic, providing incredible views of the Grand Canyon without needing to get out of the car. However, for a closer peek, you can find wheelchair-friendly overlook platforms and a free shuttle to transport visitors around the park. These National Parks Are Accessible Nature’s Playground Awaits!
As a primary caregiver for an elderly person, you learn the details of the person’s life. You learn their favorite foods, outfits, photos, places to visit, music, and so much more. You also learn their daily routines, habits, things that may cause them distress, and things that provide a sense of calm and peace. You have a unique window into their world. But what happens when you go on much needed and deserved respite or are no longer able to provide care? A temporary or new caregiver will not have your unique view and the person to whom you provide care may get upset, stressed or anxious when the new caregiver does not know the normal routine. How can you help? A favorite things list. By creating a list of their favorite things and daily routines, a new caregiver will have lots of information that will help them step into your role and will make the person you care for more comfortable with the change. Look at Laura’s Favorite Things List as an Example: Laura’s Favorite Things • She likes buttered popcorn with lots of salt. • Likes the picture of her younger sister Mary on the dressing table. • Tell her: “Your eyes light up this room!” • She likes a classic vanilla milkshake. • She likes to walk in her beige sandals. • Read articles or stories from Good Housekeeping. Her favorites are marked. • Read the poem “The Swing” by Robert Louis Stevenson. • Sing “All Things Bright and Beautiful” • She likes to wear her blue sweater all day. • She likes to sit with MY FAVORITE THINGS The Power of a Favorite Things List
Kim’s Grandma in Yosemite Park.
Grand Teton Feel like going for a swim? Grand Teton National Park wanted everyone to feel welcome to cool off in the 1,200-acre Jenny Lake, so they built a path that allows wheelchair users to roll into the water. Nearby, Teton Adaptive Sports hosts climbing trips, so nobody has to abandon their dreams of conquering the cliffs. Yellowstone This national park is one of the country’s best, with over 90% of visitors reporting never needing to leave their car. For adventurers with injuries, age-related mobility issues, or other disabilities who want a closer look, most of the thermal features Yellowstone is famous for are easily accessible due to its excellent boardwalk system. The accessibility changes made by these parks are a significant step toward ensuring our national treasures are inclusive for all who wish to experience nature’s wonders. Through innovative solutions like sand-friendly wheelchairs, cave elevators, and special driving permits, these parks give outdoor access to even more people.
her patchwork quilt snuggled over her. things horses. You can share your list with family members and others who provide care and help make a difference in someone’s life. • Loves all
Holly in our office enjoys horses.
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