Keep Loved Ones Safe During Summer Holidays

Caregivers know that keeping their loved ones safe, comfortable and happy is the ultimate goal, but it’s not always easy. Especially during the hot summer months, when those with compromised immune systems and cognitive or physical challenges are particularly susceptible to the heat. Add into the mix COVID-19 concerns and holidays like the Fourth of July and other summertime family activities, and your challenges as a caregiver increase.

There are tactics you as a family caregiver use every day to protect your loved ones, but what additional safeguards can you implement this summer to create a secure environment, while still giving them a chance to enjoy themselves?

1. Consult with your loved one’s physician

Physicians are a great source of information about your loved one and will give you advice on what types of activities will be safe. And while COVID-19 is still a concern, his/her doctor will give you the most up-to-date safety guidelines for you and your care partner. It’s important to protect them as much as possible, and while you want them to see family members and participate in family gatherings, your loved one may be safer at home. According to the Centers for Disease Control, those over age 65 have accounted for eight out of 10 COVID-19 related deaths in the United States.

The CDC also recommends monitoring your loved one’s temperature regularly, and staying alert to any changes in behavior, physical or mental ability as these symptoms can be serious if left untreated. Heat affects those who are compromised more severely than others, and the effects of heat may come on slowly, so caregivers may not see the changes until it is dangerous.

2. Stay safe while enjoying summer holidays

If your loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is easily stressed, the holidays can be a real issue, but there are safe activities you can engage in. If your loved one is at home, holiday decorations can help lift their spirits. Most long-term care communities decorate for the holidays as well, and often give residents safe holiday items like holiday stickers, celebratory hats and streamers. Decorating wheelchairs and doors can add a cheerful bit of color.  

If you take your loved one outdoors for a holiday or picnic gathering, experts recommend reducing exposure to the sun to only a few minutes, and always use sunscreen of 50 SPF or higher anytime you take them outdoors. If you feel a mask is needed, make sure it is comfortable and that you check it often. Hydration is a huge concern too, so always have plenty of water or their favorite drink nearby, and make sure they drink. Loved ones can still have fun, but outdoor time in the summer should be very limited.

Celebrate indoors, watching the festivities on TV to avoid exposing the loved one to the stress of crowds and fireworks. Make festive treats like red, white and blue cupcakes and place a festive tablecloth on the dining room table with a few simple decorations. Setting off fireworks can be dangerous, so viewing from a distance is probably the best choice, and fireworks are just as cool on TV as in-person (and less hassle).

3. Try other ways to have family time during summer holidays

Video chats have become a popular way to keep your loved ones in touch with family while staying at a safe distance. During the holidays this can be a great choice instead of traveling to these large gatherings in-person. Video chats are safe and fun, and apps are available through the Google Play app store or through the Apple app store. Popular apps are Zoom, Skype, Facetime, WhatsApp, and Viber, but there are many others to choose from. Find one that works with your devices and that you feel is easy to use for you and your loved ones, that way you’ll use it more.

During the worst of the pandemic, caregivers were trying other methods to celebrate holidays and birthdays from a safe distance, including decorating windows, driving by a loved one’s home with a caravan of decorated cars and sending giant cards with photos and personal notes that could be easily read.  See what your imagination can come up with.