No matter what summer activities your senior loved one and yourself engage in, or which ones they pursue on their own, it is vital to be aware of the risks the summer sun can pose to the elderly.

Tips to Keep in Mind

• Make sure your senior relative is well hydrated at all times.
• Stay away from any situation that may lead to heatstroke.
• Know how to spot the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Ensure your aging loved one is always protected from the sun with protective clothing, umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen.
• Even if the summer heat has caused your loved one’s appetite to decrease, always be sure they are eating well.

Recommended Activities for Seniors Loved Ones This Summer

Summer is a busy time of year: families get together for barbecues and reunions, kids are on school vacation, and everyone is gathering at the beach to swim. Aging may lead to some heat sensitivity and mobility issues, however, with a couple of changes, seniors should be able to enjoy the summer season and remain active. In fact, participating in outdoor and indoor activities are beneficial for an individual’s mental and physical health.

Summer is upon us, and here is a list of recommended activities your senior can accomplish with you, or with a caregiver from a senior home care business.

Outdoor Activities

Fishing

Fishing can be a peaceful or social activity. Your loved one may require help with lines or bait, and you will want to be sure they do not spend a great deal of time in the hot sun. So, try to find a shady place for them to enjoy the day or bring along a protective umbrella and/or clothing. Fishing is an extremely beneficial activity for your aging relative’s mental health.

Birdwatching

There are many reasons birdwatching is a fantastic summer activity. It is performed outside, which allows your elderly relative to get some fresh air. Birdwatching is an engaging activity that will encourage your aging relative to learn new things and to also invest themselves in experiencing their environment. Both of these elements are keys to preventing depression and cognitive decline.

Gardening

Gardening is a peaceful and engaging summer activity. Like fishing, your aging loved one may need some help. You can plant flowers together from a windowsill or a small balcony, as well an outdoor garden.

This is an activity that many generations can participate in. Along with you, your aging loved one, your children and grandchildren can partake in the activity of planting seeds or bulbs and seeing them grow into nutritious, delicious food or blossom into beautiful flowers for you all to enjoy.

Wade in a Pool

Outdoor pools also offer seniors a way to enjoy summer while staying cool. It is important, however, that your loved one wears plenty of sunscreen and hydrates well before entering the pool or other bodies of water.

Indoor Activities

Mall Walking

Countless malls open their doors about one hour prior to any of the stores inside the mall actually open. This provides people with an opportunity to simply enter the mall and walk the mall without the hassle of crowds. Mall walking provides an excellent exercise for summer: there is air conditioning, it is free. Even though your elderly family member is not out in the hot sun, it is important to be well hydrated when taking on mall walking activity.

Senior Center Activities

Senior centers or some senior home care businesses offer organized activities year-round. During the summer when the weather is pleasant, your loved one may be more motivated to exit their house and visit a senior center.

Activities may include bingo, card games, painting, movie nights, and even karaoke or dancing.

Water Aerobics Class

For mobile seniors, partaking in an indoor water aerobics class is great for those hot summer days. Furthermore, a water aerobics indoor class is a setting where your aging loved one can build friendships and socialize.

In addition to the social benefits, these classes also benefit your senior relative’s physical health. This type of exercise increases muscle strength and reduces blood pressure. Before participating in water aerobics, be sure your aging loved one is well hydrated even when inside.

Tourist Activities

Summer is a wonderful time of year to have your senior relative get out and accompany them to various tourist locations in the area. Many of the tourist locations like art galleries or museums are air-conditioned. Also, if your aging relative needs a break, there will be seating available. Tourist destinations provide your aging parent with entertainment and intellectual stimulation.

With all these things considered, your senior loved one can experience a relaxing and enjoyable summer.