5 Tips for Healthier, Happier Summer Activities

Summer is here, bringing with it countless opportunities to soak up the sunshine and enjoy favorite seasonal activities. From picnics in the park and leisurely strolls to cookouts and pool parties, every family has their own special summer traditions.

For families with a loved one who has dementia, however, these moments may bring mixed emotions. A parent, spouse or other family member who once eagerly participated in these gatherings may now find it difficult to engage as they once did. So, while the desire to participate may still be there, the pace, noise, and unpredictability of summer events can quickly become overwhelming, triggering confusion, fear, and anxiety.

Does that mean you need to leave them out of your summer activities? Absolutely not! While the level of support needed will vary depending on the stage of their dementia, with a little planning and sensitivity to their needs, your loved one can safely share in the joys of summer in ways that are tailored to meet their unique needs.

Here are some tips to help you pave the way towards a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer for your loved one:

1. Be aware of summer safety hazards. Check their mobility aids (cane, walker) to make sure they are in good working order. Areas with uneven ground can cause tripping or slipping. Walking on sand can be challenging as well as grassy, muddy areas and old sidewalks with cracks and potholes. Make sure they are wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes. Consider having them wear a watch or pendant with a GPS tracker in case they wander off. Make sure they have a card in their pocket that explains their condition with your name, phone number, and address.
2. Pay attention to their overall health. Make sure they are getting plenty of sleep. Being well-rested will help them remain calmer and be more adaptable. Make it easy for them to stay hydrated by having a water bottle handy. Make sure they wear loose comfortable clothing when out and about. Keep their faces free from direct sunlight with a hat or sun umbrella. Be sure to bring along their medications and be mindful if they begin to show signs of fatigue or discomfort.
3. Respect their routines and comfort levels. When is your loved one at their best? When are they most open to engaging in an activity? Keep in mind that parks and outdoor entertainment spaces can get busy in the afternoon and on weekends. Scope out the surroundings and find a cool, quiet area to move your loved one if the noise levels or activities become overwhelming. This is especially true if a large gathering is planned, such as an outdoor barbecue.
4. Prepare family members in advance. They may not have seen your loved one for a while. Help them understand how to communicate in a positive way with your loved one’s limitations in mind, while respecting their dignity.
5. Phone ahead when possible. Before you plan an outing to a museum, theater, or other public venue, do a little research to ensure that the environment will align with their needs and preferences. Contact the venue in advance if possible. Many are now dementia friendly and will work with you to schedule the best time for a visit. Restaurants alerted in advance can seat you near a bathroom or in a quieter area to avoid the din of ambient noise.

Here are some summer activities to consider that offer natural opportunities to connect, engage, and enjoy time together:

• Picnics, either in a park or your backyard
• Visits to local botanical gardens, nature walks
• Walks in the park, through the neighborhood
• Back yard barbecues with family and friends
• Bird watching in the back yard or park
• Fishing at your local lake or pond
• Outdoor games, such as bocce ball, cornhole, croquet, or horseshoes
• Planting and gardening
• Playing music in the backyard
• Sitting together and watching the sunset

Summer is a wonderful time of year to relax and reconnect with family and friends. Individuals with dementia who are able and willing to participate can gain the benefits of these connections along with the sense of empowerment that comes from being able to join in on summer activities they’ve enjoyed throughout their lives.

Looking for more ideas and tips? Feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. Our life enrichment team will be happy to share some of our favorite summer outing ideas with you.