She goes to Adult Day Care 5 days a week. We live in a rural area so the drive is about 30-45 minutes. She used to not mind being in the car, but now she completely freaks out when we turn, go over a hill, or if the road is a little bumpy. Even on flat roads she gets upset. I need to be able to drive her places, but I just don't know what to do to keep her from being so distressed. Anyone have suggestions?
If she got agitated near rocking chairs the solution would be to keep her away from rocking chairs. But that isn't exactly practical when it is about riding in vehicles! Have you tried distraction when you know a turn is coming up? "Mother, what was that song we always used to sing driving to the lake?" and encourage her to sing along. Does she have fidget toys or comfort objects she finds calming to handle? Could you make up a game? Mother, everytime we come to a bump in the road, could you clap your hands? And when we turn left, rub your tummy" etc.
I sure don't know. I hope that others who have experienced this particular brand of agitation can give you some practical advice! In the meantime, I send you and your mother hugs!
I know this doesn't solve your problem and my heart aches for you. I've been with my dad when he thought the doctor, who was performing a very familiar procedure, was on that day, trying to "kill him."
The helplessness we feel is awful. As mentioned above, if you could avoid it, you would. Taking her to day care, especially when day care is beneficial, is something that involves transportation.
Please talk with her doctor and see if there is a short acting anti-anxiety medication she could take, or at least see if the doctor has other suggestions.
Take care of yourself, too.
Carol