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Author: Home Helpers Home Care

When the weather gets hotter, it’s important for seniors to stay cool and safe. Older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, but staying inside doesn’t have to be boring or sedentary. With a little creativity and some support from home care assistance when they need it, seniors can have a lot of fun inside when it is too hot to be outside much.

Chair Exercises or Light Movement

Staying physically active improves circulation, balance, and overall well-being, but being too intensely active in hot weather isn’t a great idea for seniors. Chair exercises like gentle stretching or light yoga can be great indoor options that help keep seniors moving without overheating or overexerting themselves. These movements can also be done in short bursts throughout the day.

Gentle Container Garden Care

Gardening outside isn’t the only way to take care of beautiful plants. A few small containers and potted plants on a windowsill or shaded porch can bring a lot of joy and purpose. Seniors can tend to their plants without having to go outside and worry about getting overheated. This also allows plants to be accessible year-round.

Reading or Listening to Audiobooks

Really hot days are a perfect time for seniors to get lost in a tale. Reading or listening to audiobooks can be a fun way to pass the time for hours. Revisiting a favorite book or trying out a new book everyone is talking about can be equally enjoyable. Another idea is to take turns with a caregiver reading aloud. Stocking up on large-print books or favorite audiobooks means there are always options.

Crafting

Creative hobbies like fiber arts, scrapbooking, or even coloring offer relaxation and a sense of accomplishment. Crafting also helps with fine motor skills and memory, which are important for seniors as they age in place. These activities are a lot of fun when it’s too hot to be too active otherwise. Seniors can try larger projects or aim for smaller projects that they can finish in one sitting.

Making Cold Treats

Cooking and baking aren’t appealing on a hot day, of course, but making something cold can be a lot of fun and it can be tasty, too. Treats like fruit popsicles, homemade ice cream, or smoothies are all great options. Making them from scratch at home offers hydration and nutrition, plus seniors know what’s in their treats.

Journaling, Writing Letters, or Staying in Touch with Others

Seniors can also spend these really hot days connecting with other people in their lives or reflecting. Journaling, reaching out to family members through letters, or scheduling video or phone calls on hot days gives seniors something to do inside that can be refreshing for them. These activities might be ones that seniors want to keep up with, but aren’t sure when to engage in them.

Hot days might mean that outdoor activities aren’t a great idea, but there are lots of ways to stay active and happy inside. Home care assistance can help seniors to plan for these types of days, and they can also help seniors to set up and be prepared for indoor days.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in San Jose, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 317-4969.