Imagine a city surrounded by lush farmland and an abundance of florists and growers. If this sounds like somewhere you'd love to visit, then spend Independence Day in New Castle, IN. Just keep in mind that the summer heat is a force to reckon with, especially for seniors, making Fourth of July safety tips more important than ever.
Seniors are probably wondering how they can enjoy holiday festivities without feeling tired or stressed out by crowds. Fortunately, this helpful guide offers the best advice on staying safe and healthy, from packing plenty of water to traveling with friends.
Are you ready to learn more about summer safety? Then be sure to keep reading!
You might have a packed holiday schedule, but Independence Day wellness is something you can't overlook. This means focusing on your body and what it tells you.
If you feel any of the following, be sure to take a break -- or even head home:
Not everyone loves crowds, but July 4th celebrations - especially parades and fireworks displays - tend to draw in a large number of people, making the holiday uncomfortable for sensitive groups. If you ever feel overwhelmed, take a moment for yourself and listen to your body.
If there are too many people, look for a quiet park bench and sit and relax. You can also bring blankets and chairs, and find quieter spots to enjoy fireworks.
Summer heat sneaks up on you, especially when you're busy and enjoying a day out and about. This is why you need to stay hydrated; keeping a couple of bottles of water with you at all times is essential.
It's also a good idea to skip sugary drinks or anything alcoholic, as this can dehydrate you further. Even if you're not thirsty, take frequent sips of water to prevent yourself from becoming dehydrated.
If you're not a fan of plain water, consider adding sliced fruit or even cucumber to your water for a refreshing twist. This gives a little flavor to help you stay hydrated.
If you're at a barbecue or festival, don't forget to pack your medication. You can use a pill organizer to help you keep track of your medications. Also, be sure to set your alarm -- or two -- to help you remember to take your medication.
Should you forget a dose of your meds, you might feel sick or have other symptoms. It might help to ask a friend or family member to remind you to take your medication to prevent this.
If you feel dizzy at any point, don't ignore it. Take a minute for yourself, sit down, and don't hesitate to ask someone for help.
One of the biggest Fourth of July traditions is watching the fireworks, but this poses challenges for individuals who are sensitive to loud sounds and booms.
Part of firework awareness means picking a spot to watch the fireworks that's close enough to enjoy the show but far enough away where you're safe and comfortable. Always avoid standing near where the fireworks are launched. And never handle fireworks yourself -- this is only for the pros.
If you're sensitive to sound, it's a good idea to come prepared with earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. This lets you watch the show without the sound hurting your ears.
The best way to do this is to wear light, breathable clothing. This helps keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. It's also a good idea to have a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, as this works to protect against the sun.
Next, don't skip sunscreen, even if you're in the shade. You can still get sunburn, so always take precautions to protect yourself.
July 4th is a great time to attend barbeques, picnics, and festivals, each with plenty of delicious foods to choose from. But this also increases your risk of food poisoning, especially if the food has been sitting out in the sun for too long.
Instead, only eat fresh food that has been kept at safe temperatures. Foodborne illnesses are worse for seniors and children, so if something looks suspicious, avoid it altogether.
If you're concerned about what to eat, senior safety tips include bringing snacks. Some great things to pack include:
Whatever your favorite light bites are, pack them for your packed activity calendar.
The Fourth of July is a hectic day, with parties, parades, concerts, and more. You might want to do everything -- and this can quickly lead to burnout and fatigue.
If you're celebrating and feel tired or anxious, don't hesitate to take a break. This doesn't mean you're missing out on the fun. In reality, you're taking care of your body and prioritizing your health.
Summer heat is often unpredictable, so it's best to plan outdoor activities for mornings and evenings. This keeps you indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
When you're outside, find shady spots and stay hydrated. Other senior care tips include a portable fan or misting device, along with a cooling towel.
If possible, always enjoy the festivities with a friend or family member. When you have someone there with you, it's safer but also more fun. If you do go out alone, always have your phone with you and ensure it's fully charged.
Always keep these Fourth of July safety tips in mind, and you'll have a fun and safe holiday. Be sure to stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, keep your medication with you, enjoy fireworks from a distance, and listen to your body when it tells you to relax.
By following these holiday precautions, you'll have a great time on Independence Day, ready for whatever activities come your way!
Addison Place Assisted Living offers compassionate assisted living on Independence Day and throughout the year. Our close-knit community is devoted to senior safety tips while offering residents independence and support. But more importantly, we foster true connections, helping all residents thrive.
Contact us today to schedule a tour!