Celebrating the 4th of July with Seniors

On the 4th of July, the entire country stops to enjoy everything summer has to offer—warm weather, great food, and fun with the family. No matter where you live, there is bound to be an event celebrating the independence of our country.

For some seniors, however, the 4th of July can be a bit agitating. With all the noise, smoke, and heat, many seniors—especially those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s—end up overwhelmed by the festivities.

If you’re celebrating the 4th of July with seniors, try these senior-friendly activity ideas that are fun for all ages.

Make sure your event is senior-friendly

No matter what you do to celebrate this holiday, the best way to ensure that your elderly loved one has a good time is to make sure it’s senior-friendly. Ensure older adults enjoy the Fourth by:

• Having a portable chair for them. Standing for long periods can be uncomfortable for seniors. Make sure there is a seat available for them whenever they need to get off their feet.
• Making sure there is easy access to restrooms. If your Fourth of July activity takes place in your backyard, this won’t be an issue. However, if you’re going to be spending the day at a park, make sure the restrooms aren’t far.
• Limiting direct sun exposure. Access to a cool and/or shady spot is crucial, as you don’t want anyone overheating.
• Having a light jacket ready as the sun sets. Temperatures are likely to drop when the sun goes down. While you wait for the fireworks, make there’s a jacket or blanket for them.
• Limiting the amount of time spent at large gatherings. This is especially important for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia, as too much stimulation could make them agitated, anxious, or angry.

Host a BBQ

Barbecues are a quintessential Independence Day event. So, get the whole family together and fire up the grill. Most seniors love getting some fresh air and chatting with family members. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t get too much sun exposure.

Some seniors will enjoy being involved in the preparation of the barbecue. If that’s the case, commission them to put together red, white, and blue, and other patriotic-themed décor. You could also have them come up with a menu of patriotic dishes.

Make Patriotic Dishes Together

Many seniors enjoy (or used to enjoy) cooking. If that sounds like your loved one, get their input on the menu and enlist their help. Keep in mind their skill level and mobility and have them prepare some patriotic dishes that aren’t too difficult. Some great options include hot dogs, a flag cake, or potato salad.

Watch a Parade

The bright colors and floats are fun for any age, so bring the whole family to watch a local parade. Have your loved one wear loose, light clothing to avoid over-heating, and make sure they stay hydrated.

If you head to the event location early, you’ll be able to find a good, shady spot. It’s even better if you can watch the parade from a porch, where they’re slightly removed from the bulk of the crowd but still able to see everything.

Watch fireworks at a distance

What is a better way to celebrate Independence Day than with fireworks? Find out where fireworks will be shot off in your area and head that way. Just like with the parade, get there early so you can find a spot that is suitable for your elderly loved one.

Some seniors might grow overwhelmed by the roaring crowd and fireworks. If that is the case for your loved one, try to find a spot that is close to the exit, so you can leave without having to fight the masses. If you don’t want to worry about all that, watching fireworks on the television is a great alternative. Your loved one can enjoy the spectacle without the noise.

Home Care Powered by AUAF Wishes Everyone a Happy and Safe Fourth of July!

We hope you all are able to spend Independence Day surrounded by your loved ones! Just remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be safe.

Call us at 773-274-9262 to learn more about our home care services.