Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

Summer can be a great time to enjoy the outdoors with seniors and get some fresh air, especially when many are staying home. It is a great time to get active, but it is also important to use caution. Here are some easy tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the warmer summer months:

● Avoid being in direct contact with the sun during peak hours

● Wear a large-brimmed hat and sunscreen to prevent sunburn and other skin damage

● Wear sunglasses to prevent eye damage

● Dress in layers so you can remove clothing and not become overheated

● Take water with you if you plan to be outside for an extended period of time to stay hydrated

● Take breaks and stay cool. If you or loved one starts to feel overheated, go inside to cool down and recharge. Seniors and children are more susceptible to heatstroke, so be mindful and keep an eye on them.

● Wear bug repellent to prevent uncomfortable bug bites

During this time, besides our regular summer tips, we also have to be mindful of the “new normal” we are navigating during this COVID-19 global pandemic. At this time, and likely through the summer months, we will still need to practice social distancing measures. This includes:

● Keeping a 6 feet distance between you and others

● Wearing a mask when needed

● Using proper handwashing measures and using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available

● Avoiding touching common areas in public, or sanitizing before touching (such as grocery cart handles)

● Being mindful of any state or city ordinances that may change during this pandemic, such as closed parks or trails

When spending time with seniors during the summer months, here are some activity recommendations to keep them engaged and active:

● Sitting outside and enjoying a glass of ice-cold naturally flavored water or lemonade

● Gardening (modifying this activity to meet their ability and helping them as much as you can)

● Birdwatching

● Having a picnic

● Going for a walk (this can include being pushed in a wheelchair)

● Going to a farmers market

● Enjoying a cool treat, such as ice cream and popsicles

ComForCare Home Care’s experienced and compassionate caregivers help the elderly stay active and enjoy meaningful activities so that they can continue to live independently and with dignity. The home care agency is here for any short term or long term needs.

Portions of this article were originally featured on blog.comforcare.com.

ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care with nearly 200 independently owned and operated locations in the U.S., Canada and the U.K., helping older adults live independently in their own homes and continue to do all the things they love. The home care company is committed to helping people live their best life possible and also offers special programs for people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

ComForCare Home Care
Serving Fairfield & New Haven Counties
1700 Post Road, Suite E5
Fairfield, CT 06824
(203) 612-8966
ComForCare.com/FairfieldCT
fairfieldct@comforcare.com

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