When the Sunshine Gets Stronger, So Should Our Care
Summer brings so many joys—longer days, garden blooms, and moments of warmth that lift the spirit. But for older adults, the warmer months can also bring hidden health risks. High temperatures, intense sun, and even small changes in daily routines can affect hydration, mobility, and overall well-being.
If you’re caring for an aging loved one—or you’re one of Home Instead’s amazing Care Pros—you’ve probably noticed how quickly heat can impact someone more vulnerable. The good news? A few simple habits can make a world of difference.
Why Older Adults Are More Vulnerable in the Summer
As we age, our bodies change how they regulate temperature and process hydration. Older adults may not feel thirsty even when they’re dehydrated. Chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes—and the medications used to treat them—can make this worse.
Limited mobility also means that some older adults can’t move to cooler spots easily or get themselves a cold drink when they need it most. Add in the strong midday sun, and it’s easy to see why heat-related illness spikes for seniors during the summer months.
Your Summer Safety Toolkit: 4 Ways to Support Seniors
Here’s how caregivers can help aging adults stay safe—and even thrive—during the hottest season:
1. Hydration Isn’t Just About Water
While water is key, many older adults find it easier to hydrate with a little variety:
- Offer chilled fruit like watermelon or cucumber slices.
- Try herbal iced teas or flavored water (just watch added sugar).
- Yogurt, smoothies, and popsicles can be hydrating and fun.
Make it social: Sit with your client or loved one during a hydration break. Sometimes, the encouragement of your company makes sipping water feel less like a chore.
2. Dress Smart, Feel Better
Loose, breathable clothing in light colors can help reduce body temperature. When heading outdoors, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses do more than add style—they protect fragile skin and sensitive eyes from UV damage.
Tip: Encourage layering if your client moves between AC and warm air often.
3. Make It Cool, Literally
If your loved one doesn’t have air conditioning, a fan or even a bowl of cool water for hand-soaking can offer relief. Place cool washcloths on the neck or wrists to regulate body temperature quickly.
4. Time Outdoor Activities Wisely
Being outside has real benefits for mood and mental health—but aim for early morning or evening hours. Bring a folding chair into the shade, stroll around the block, or simply sit together and listen to the birds. It doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.
Connection Counts: Making the Most of Sunny Days
Beyond safety, summer is a golden time for emotional connection. Isolation can creep in when routines shift or friends travel, but the outdoors offers an easy, uplifting way to connect.
Here are a few caregiver-approved activities that invite movement, memory, and smiles:
- Porch chats: Just a few minutes outside with conversation can reset a day.
- Nature observing: Point out butterflies, name flowers, or cloud-watch.
- Light gardening: Watering a plant or clipping herbs adds purpose and joy.
- Music outdoors: Play a favorite song from their youth and see where the conversation goes.
Every shared moment helps strengthen the emotional health that sustains long-term wellness.
Bonus: A Cool Recipe to Try Together
If you’re looking for a kitchen activity that cools and connects, try making this Watermelon Feta Salad with your client or loved one. It’s hydrating, colorful, and fun to prep together:
Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint & Cucumber
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- ¼ cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
Mix ingredients in a large bowl, chill for 10–15 minutes, and enjoy!
For Family Members and Caregivers
Caring for a loved one in the summer doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple question like, “Want to try this with me?” can lead to meaningful connection. Use these tips to start small—share a cool drink, step outside together, or plan a moment in the shade.
For more seasonal tips and caregiver support, visit www.homeinstead.com/care-resources.
