According to a survey conducted by Statista.com, 65% of Americans celebrated Independence Day in 2023. Independence Day, or the 4th of July, is a time for community gatherings, patriotism, and celebrations. Outdoor festivities, barbecues, and fireworks displays mark this cherished holiday.
However, it's important to remember that even though it's a joyous day, various Independence Day precautions must be taken to protect older adults in Lake Mills, Wisconsin.
Let's discuss essential Fourth of July safety tips for seniors in assisted living in Lake Mills, WI.
Seniors should stay at a safe distance from fireworks displays. The loud noise can be alarming and uncomfortable. Consider carrying earplugs if you or your loved one would like to enjoy fireworks without being affected by the deafening noise.
Fireworks are also associated with bright lights, which can be overwhelming for seniors with sensory sensitivities.
Below are some precautions that older adults in senior living, WI, to ensure fireworks safety:
If your Fourth of July plan involves staying outdoors, prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones. Since Independence Day is during summer, apply enough sunscreen to protect your skin from the dangerous UV rays. Don't forget to wear sunglasses and wide-brim hats for sun protection.
The CDC reports that seniors are prone to dehydration, especially during summer. To ensure holiday wellness, hydrate regularly during the day and take plenty of fluids to keep you cool.
Additionally, assist older individuals with mobility issues to prevent injuries and falls -- research beforehand for outdoor places with easily accessible seating areas and pathways.
Also, be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, including the following:
Sometimes, temperatures can be unpredictable, so carrying warm clothing during outdoor senior-friendly events is necessary. If you intend to celebrate until dusk, bring a small blanket or extra clothing for protection against the wind.
Fourth of July is a day to enjoy various foods with your family and friends. Whether you plan to eat outdoors, cook, grill, or barbecue, always remember food safety. The food you cook or order during Independence Day should be nutritious.
If you or your senior loved one in LakeHouse Lake Mills has a medical condition requiring them to adhere to a strict diet, prepare a healthy diet they can enjoy.
LakeHouse Lake Mills has a kitchenette where residents can cook homestyle meals to enjoy with their loved ones. We also provide delicious meals prepared daily by a chef. We have a beautiful outdoor space and gardens where you can host your friends and family as you celebrate Independence Day.
Holidays can sometimes unleash isolation and loneliness among Lake Mills, WI, seniors. To prevent this, spend quality time with your older loved ones. Encourage them to communicate openly and share stories about how they celebrated the Fourth of July when they were young.
Most older individuals have lived through major historical events and have a ton of perspectives and experiences that they would love to share. If your loved one is in an assisted living community, visit them for a storytelling session during Independence Day. This helps strengthen social bonds, stimulate their memory, and create a connection to the holiday.
If you're celebrating Independence Day indoors, opt for lightweight and simple decorations that don't need extensive effort or climbing to put up. A simple décor on the common living space with flags, themed tableware, and red, white, and blue streamers is enough to bring the spirit of the Fourth of July.
Involve older adults in the decoration process. This way, you can engage in conversation and reminisce. It's also a great way to make seniors feel included and part of the family.
Now that you know Independence Day precautions, what are some senior-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday? Below are some meaningful ways to ensure the holiday celebrations are inclusive and tailored to the comfort of Lake Wills, WI, seniors.
Some older individuals enjoy listening to Independence songs, especially since they take them back to when they were young. Come up with a playlist of American classics and patriotic songs from the 1940s to the 1970s. You can also organize a sing-along with old favorites to create unity and evoke nostalgia.
You and your senior loved one can create projects with blue, white, and red colors to celebrate the Fourth of July. Engaging in hands-on activities is beneficial for older adults with cognitive challenges and dementia. These projects can improve their self-esteem, focus, and motor skills.
As a caregiver to a Lake Mills assisted living community senior, you can prepare the necessary materials in advance. Don't forget to come up with arts and crafts projects relevant to older adults' abilities.
Some seniors are either unable to go out due to health conditions or prefer staying indoors. You can bring the fun to them during Independence Day by watching a Fourth of July-themed movie in the comfort of their home. It's a simple way to make them feel included and festive.
Independence Day is a time for celebration and joy. However, it's essential to prioritize the well-being and safety of older adults during this holiday. By following Fourth of July safety tips for seniors, such as considering outdoor and fireworks safety, the holiday can be enjoyable for everyone.
At LakeHouse Lake Mills, we have senior-friendly activities such as arts and crafts, movie and popcorn nights, bingo, and sing-alongs to help residents thrive and enjoy Independence Day. We also have community outings and social and recreational programs to ensure seniors enjoy their golden years.
Contact us today and experience a true sense of belonging in our senior living community by the lake.