Here's a stupid question for sure. If the caregiver brings dad to his lady friend's house for a visit, or drives them to a restaurant, what does the caregiver do? Does he have dinner with them? Does he give them an hour in the restaurant and do some shopping?

It would be nice if my dad's life could be as normal as possible, and going on a date with his lady friend should still be possible - except that he does not drive. Maybe they want to talk about personal things, so having the caregiver there would not let them have things "like the good old days."

I have taken them out several times, but my dad should be able to have a date with her when he wants, not to fit my schedule. Besides, maybe they don't want me there either!

I know I opened this can of worms with getting someone who would drive, but in general, it's been working out great - and it will be especially good that the caregiver drives when there are 2 feet of snow on the ground and I can't make the 60 mile trip.

quote:

I will celebrate this as one of the good days!

Yeah you right!!

Well, just YAHOOOO. Daddy goes a courtin' and he did go aha.

I really think this caregiver gets it. He left my dad and me to visit with his lady-friend for a bit, and he went to pick up a hamburger for himself - and we all had a fun, private chat.

This being the first visit to his lady-friend's house, we determined that he can negotiate the stairs with his cane with some help, and sit in a regular chair with some help... I think more visits will happen - and this will make my dad very happy!

I will celebrate this as one of the good days!

lantern, maybe you could quietly ask your Dad how HE would like this to go. If out to dinner, the CG could eat at another table where he could keep an eye out. If at her house, he could take some paper work or write up the shopping list or something in another room.

Maybe there are some errands he could run while your Dad is visiting. He could wait in the car and take a nap. I would ask your Dad, though. Isn't that part of what you are trying to achieve?

your wanting your dad to have quality time with another away from home is wonderful.Having caregiver take them and later bring them home makes this possible.Imagine not having someone who would do this for him.Sadly compromise is necessary.Beats staying home