While it is possible to enjoy cultural events from your couch it doesn't compare to going to a concert with a friend, singing along and enjoying the live atmosphere. It also isn't the same as going to a live football match where you cheer along with a huge crowd when your favourite teams scores.
Thanks to technology, you can even meet friends virtually in the safety of your home. However, if you really want a good talk or engage in intense discussions (or share the latest gossip), why not do it over some good food at your favourite restaurant? Or if you want to speak to a friend about something that is bothering you, it might be easier to talk to them in the local park rather than at home.
Be creative and surprise your friends or family, when it comes to socialising. This way, you get to pick a social situation that is most convenient for you. But you should also be able to accept their ideas without worrying. All you have to do is to plan ahead. Here is how:
Plan your activity
It may be tempting to skip catheterisation when you are visiting new and unknown places or if you are with people that don’t know about your condition. But remember that skipping catheterisation might result in leaks and can also be harmful to your bladder in the long term.
Plan your activities ahead, so you can enjoy them without interruptions. Set aside time for catheterisation during the activities. Catheterise as close to the time you leave your home as possible, find out where the bathrooms are located in advance and try to plan for when it will be convenient for you to take breaks during the day.
If you are having a lot of fun, it is easy to get carried away - and you should! If you are at all concerned about remembering when to catheterise, simply setting a phone or watch alarm can help put your mind at ease.
Pack a smart kit
When away from the security of your home, it is good to know that you have everything you could possibly need with you. Public bathrooms are usually less clean and might not be equipped in a convenient way. If you worry about leaks, it may also be important that you can clean yourself or change clothes. Some people use a different type of catheter when out than they use at home. You might want to have a more compact one or one with a urine bag attached.
It's a good idea to plan ahead and pack a bag of supplies – just in case.
Know what bathrooms await you
Investigate what the toilets are like at the event you are going to before you go – this is especially important if you are in a wheelchair. Look it up on the internet or call ahead to find out more about how the venue is equipped. You can also use the WheelMate app for smartphones to locate the nearest bathrooms.
Consider what to wear
Dark colours will make it less visible if you experience a small leak. Have a blazer, pullover or cardigan, which you can quickly wrap around your waist if necessary. Or wear a pad for extra safety until you feel comfortable with your routine and in going out.
