It’s warm outside! The summer sunshine is so wonderful for pool parties or a day at the lake. For your senior, soaking up some sunshine may also be welcome on summer afternoons. If you are taking your loved one on outings or spending time with them outdoors this season, make sure they are prepared to handle these hot days. Here are some tips to help keep your senior safe and happy this summer!
Find shade. Even for that short visit out on the patio, it’s important to make sure your senior is not exposed directly to the hot sun. Assisted living or nursing homes may provide outdoor seating with umbrellas or a roof to help provide shade. Still, being outdoors in the hottest months of the year may be a challenge for the elderly. So even if you do find a wonderful shady spot, it may be too warm to spend more than a few minutes at a time outdoors.
Time of day. Early mornings may be the best time to find cooler temperatures appropriate for taking your loved one on outings. An early morning breakfast out on the patio of their favorite restaurant may be a wonderful choice. Or perhaps your senior would enjoy an evening outing to get a frosty fruit smoothie or ice cream once the hottest part of the afternoon is over. Spending some time outdoors when it’s cooler out could brighten up your senior’s summer this year. Watch the temperature for a few days and check out forecasts to get a feel for when might be the best part of the day to spend time outdoors with your senior.
Hydrate
No matter where or when you go outdoors, it’s important to bring water or refreshing drinks along. Staying hydrated especially during the summer months is important for all ages, and seniors are no exception. Have a drink ready for each of you and encourage your loved one to hydrate as much as possible. If water isn’t exciting, find out what their favorite drink is and pack some with you. You might also find a practical and easy to use water bottle to gift your senior. Water bottles can come in fun colors and help keep their water cold for long periods of time. And of course, make sure your senior is familiar with hydration stations and drink options at their assisted living or nursing home!
Sunscreen. Even if you are going to be spending time outdoors in the shade, it’s important to make sure your loved one is protected with sunscreen. You can find brands that are higher SPF and that are more suited to sensitive skin. It might make a nice gift to leave with your senior for future outdoor adventures as well. Sun hats can also provide some protection from the hot sun rays. Perhaps your senior has one hiding somewhere in their closet!
Some seniors are more comfortable staying within their assisted living environment, with all the comforts and assistance they love close at hand. Check out the events and activities calendar at your senior’s community and encourage them to participate in all the fun planned summer activities. They are geared towards ensuring residents can have fun socializing and staying active while remaining in a safe environment.
Your senior can enjoy this summer and spend some quality time outdoors with you safely with just these few simple ideas. It’s a good idea to check with your loved one’s community prior to visiting to make sure you can follow recommended health guidelines to keep all residents safe. A quick all to the hospitality desk will give you direction. Enjoy summertime with your senior and stay cool and safe!
