Summer is a perfect time to participate in activities that make cherished memories with our loved ones. For those in Memory Care, discover comfortable ways to enjoy all the season has to offer.

How can you make the most of this time in a way that considers the safety and well-being of your loved one? With careful planning, thought, and a dash of creativity, there are secure and joyful ways to experience summer.

Bringing interests, they already enjoy outside makes a difference. Look at some helpful advice and opportunities to guide you in the right direction:

Understand their needs

Before deciding on a summer activity, think about their current abilities. Feeling comfortable is essential to make for an enjoyable experience. There are plenty of opportunities right within the community.

You can always contact members of their care team, such as doctors, nurses, and attendants, to learn more about their capabilities. Using this resource is helpful to understand other information about dementia and Alzheimer’s that can be a useful guide.

Familiarity plays a significant role in having a fun summer experience. Try bringing special items that may remind them of the season, such as pictures and souvenirs.

Stay refreshed

Summer temperatures can be challenging for anyone, but especially for older adults. Though basking in the sun is a favorite part of summer, it’s no secret that the sun can tire us out.

Drinking enough water and staying in a cool environment is essential to stay healthy. Encourage your loved one to drink lots of water and check with their community to keep their living space cool.

Nutrition is always important. Preparing chilled snacks such as fruit, salads, smoothies, or everyone’s favorite guilty pleasure – ice cream – is a delicious way to hydrate.

There are water activities that help cool off, too. Depending on the comfortability of your loved one, see about setting up a small sprinkler or pool to walk in or sit nearby. To keep them safe, keep the water at a reasonable temperature and have non-slip mats or shoes nearby.

Sun safety

With age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to the sun. Protecting your skin from the sun is a must when spending so much time outdoors. Stock up on sunscreen with a high SPF. Applying it any time spent outside is the best way to avoid sunburn.

Another easy way to protect loved ones is by throwing on a hat or lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Make sure they are taking regular breaks in the shade. The fresh air is enjoyable under a shaded umbrella or from inside with the windows open.

Therapeutic activities

Starting with trying activities within their community is a manageable approach. Residents in Memory Care do best in routines and settings they are already familiar with. Not only can onsite therapeutic opportunities be enjoyable, but they also work on cognitive skills.

Art therapy is an outlet for Memory Care residents to express themselves. It also can relieve overwhelming emotions. Set up outdoor crafts such as finger painting, drawing, or flower arranging. Such options promote sensory stimulation in a peaceful, creative way.

Listening to music is also therapeutic. Amazingly, it can bring back feelings and memories. Create a playlist of favorite tunes or turn on the radio. Just listening or singing along goes a long way, especially in the fresh air.

Simple problem-solving games, like puzzles and word games, are another stimulating way to have fun in the sun. Gather with friends and family on a park bench or picnic table. Enjoy a fun game and share a meal while doing so.

Embrace the outdoors and go on a nature walk. Go on a stroll while taking in the lively sights and sounds. Encourage your loved one to interact with their environment by touching leaves and smelling flowers.

Creating opportunities for loved ones in Memory Care that focus on their well-being makes for a safe, memorable summer. Giving them enriching experiences improves their health while being able to have fun and express themselves.

Taking the right precautions alleviates any stress and potential issues arising. This joyous time should be spent with the ones closest to our hearts. Soak up all that summer offers at Gloria Dei’s Memory Care at the Park.