Appleton Seniors with Dementia Can Safely Have Fun Outdoors, and BrightStar Care of Appleton Can Help!
Alzheimer’s caregivers always need to be careful to keep their loved one safe, but with summer comes additional safety concerns. A senior who wanders may face additional safety challenges in the summer if they are not hydrated, or are not wearing sunscreen.
Tips to Keep a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Safe during the Summer:
- Stay hydrated: People with dementia may not realize that they are thirsty, so encourage them to drink frequently.
- Apply sunscreen regularly: A senior with Alzheimer’s may not remember to put on sunscreen, so be sure to remind them to reapply when needed.
- Dress appropriately: As dementia progresses, decision making becomes more difficult. Put away any winter clothes and make light, summer clothing easily accessible.
- Limit sun exposure: Try to stay in shaded areas as much as possible and stay inside during the hottest part of the day, usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Be watchful around water: It’s best to have any home pools protected by a fence but keep a watchful eye on any seniors who may wander to prevent an accident.
- Avoid loud noises and crowds: Both loud noises and crowds can be overwhelming for someone with dementia.
Safe Summer Activities for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s or Dementia:
- Attending a baseball game or another sporting event
- Attending an outdoor concert
- Family reunions
- Gardening
- Going to an outdoor movie
- Having a picnic
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