I thought I would reach out to this group for some information about what kind of a vacation would be best suited to a PWP.

We would like to take a family vacation (my parents, myself, my husband and our 6 year old) but aren't sure what sort of destination would be best for my dad.

I thought I read somewhere here that heat and humidity are difficult to deal with for PWPs. Is that the case or is it just you can't do DisneyWorld in August, but laying on the beach in the shade with a book would work?

I know everyone has different ideas of what a great vacation looks like, but are there destinations we should stay away from or certain places certain times of year?

My dad is in a funk right now (seems to have gotten worse) and we really want to help him see that he can still enjoy things, just maybe not the same way he used to. Is that unrealistic?

I live in Florida and I don't think the heat and humidity bother me more than anyone else. Some people can't deal with the heat and humidity and some can- it does not matter if you have PD or not. I love Florida and would rather deal with the heat than the cold in the winter.

As for a vacation suggestion, what kind of vacations has your family enjoyed in the past? I suggest the same kind of vacation you would plan if your Dad did not have PD, but with modifications. Plan short activities with rest periods in between. For example, visit a museum or historic site in the morning. Schedule time for a rest or nap after lunch. Then maybe 3 pm some time on the beach or at a pool.

If your family wants to visit Disney, don't expect your Dad to be able to spend a whole day there, but let him do a few things there and then go back to the hotel while other family members stay in the theme park. Renting a wheel chair may be helpful.

No, it is not unrealistic to help your Dad see he can still enjoy things. Just give him time to rest in between the enjoyable activities.

I guess it would depend on how badly your father is effected. I mean is he still reasonably mobile or is he wheel chair bound? Can he walk a considerable distance or is it too much for him.

My first 7-8 years with the disease we did everything from Disney World to renting a cabin in the West Virginia mountains. It all depends on his condition.

East TN has it all I think....depends what he likes...Everything from boating , kayaking, bike trails, Beautiful mountains,fishing, Dollywood, waterparks, Bristol Speedway/antique car shows/Doe River Gorge family Saturdays/ Bays Mountain Park, Gray Fossil Museum &dig .Ashville area close with the Biltmore and endless things to do. What does he like?

Hey, you might consider a cruise—everyone is literally in the same boat! The structure of a cruise brings groups/families together for certain activities, like meals, while leaving plenty of room for independent choices at varying levels of energy. I was a cruise skeptic before my sister convinced me and my husband to join her and her husband on a Caribbean cruise. I have never in my life felt more stress-free!

Your idea of providing your dad with an opportunity to experience enjoyment seems right on target to me. It is not surprising that with a family trip on the horizon he is in a funk. When you have PD, "happy" events—like a vacation or a new grandchild—can turn your thoughts to despiriting comparisons between what is and what used to be. I'd guess that given a bit of time, he'll recalibrate his defense mechanisms, push through it, and have fun. Your dad is lucky you are so observant and concerned about his welfare. Good luck! I hope that whatever you do, you all have a great time.

Kathleen

Thank you all for responding and for your well thought comments.

My dad does not use any sort of assistance devices at this time, but a long walk between terminals or sightseeing would definitely wear him out quickly. Depending on where he is in his medication cycle, he walks fairly well or shuffles and seems to have balance issues (I'm sure you are all more than familiar with the drill ).

Something where we have options for him to go rest somewhere easily is a great idea.

He has an appointment to see a psychiatrist (he already has seen a psychologist who sent him to the psychiatrist for meds), who hopefully will recommend an anti-depressant. Hopefully that will help him with his outlook on things.