With the warmer weather here, it is tempting to shed our winter wear and get outside to enjoy it. But with seniors, you need to be extremely careful with heat and sun exposure.
Sunburns and heat stroke can be very dangerous, if not fatal in our older generation. But that doesn’t mean you need to stay locked indoors. There are plenty of activities you can do and still reap the benefits of the warm weather.
Safe Summer Activities for Seniors
When you are partaking in outdoor activities, make sure your loved one is dressed appropriately, and you have what you will need. This may include:
- Hat that covers the head, face, and shoulders
- Light, breathable clothing
- Arms, legs, and feet covered
- Umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Plenty of water
Swimming
If your loved one is sensitive to the sun and heat, enjoy swimming indoors. Chances are the pool will not be as busy as most people will want to be outside. It’s a great way to enjoy summer activities.
If you can find a covered outdoor pool, then that will give you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the sun and the water and cross back to the covered area if it is too hot.
Swimming at an outdoor pool that isn’t covered is fine if that is your only option. Make sure you go in the early morning or later in the evening. Avoid the peak hours and the time of day that is too hot.
Read more about the benefits of swimming here.
Family BBQ and Picnic
Whether you are staying home or heading out to a park or camping ground, a family meal outside is a great get-together. Make sure your older loved one isn’t sitting out in the hot sun or exposed to high heat.
Let your loved ones sit and enjoy a cold drink while you do the running around. Seniors may not realize they are overheating until it is too late. Cater to them and let them relax and enjoy the shade.
Gardening
A lovely morning puttering around a flower bed or weeding a vegetable garden is enjoyable and relaxing. As long as you or your loved one isn’t out there too long and make sure someone is there to help take care of the heavy lifting.
Gardening is a great way for seniors to feel independent and that they are accomplishing something. Many people take great pride in their gardens, so as long as they are covered up and not getting too much sun, they will be fine.
Bowling
Hitting the bowling alley is always a great time. It’s a great way to include the entire family and friends. It’s great exercise and a chance to catch up and have fun while you play a game.
Lawn bowling is also a great way to get together and get some exercise. Keep mom covered up and in the shade when she isn’t up taking her turn. Playing in the morning or in the evening as the sun sets is the perfect way to get the most out of it.
Farmer’s Market
Hit the local farmer’s market for a great way to support your community and get some great items. Very often the stalls are covered and there are often markets that utilize indoor and outdoor spaces.
It’s a nice way to get in a walk and exercise, spend time together, meet friends and family, and also find some great deals on local produce, jams, crafts, and more. Make a day of it by having lunch there.
Outdoor Movies
Many communities show movies at dusk on the sides of buildings or other spaces large enough. It’s a great deal of fun for the whole family. Take a cooler with snacks, a blanket, and a choice of drinks.
Check out the location beforehand to make sure you can access it easily, depending on your loved one’s mobility, there are restrooms provided, parking, and other amenities.
For peace mind at home and on the go, consider a medical alert system. You or a loved one will have 24/7 access to Response Specialists. Embrace the freedom to savor your summer without any worries or fears holding you back.