Labor Day Safety Tips for Seniors in Lake Mills, WI
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According to Britannica, the first Labor Day parade was held in 1882 in New York City. Twelve years later, it became a federal holiday, and to this day, we still celebrate with parades.
This day is typically considered the end of summer, so many communities go all out with celebrations and events. Yours in Lake Mills, WI may be doing so, and you want to participate to make treasured memories with loved ones.
However, as an older adult, there are more things you need to watch out for during this holiday. Here are a few Labor Day safety tips that can help you stay safe and comfortable this holiday.
Stay Hydrated During Outdoor Events
An important part of holiday safety for seniors is hydration. Labor Day is often warm, and dehydration can sneak up quickly.
Make sure you drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Older adults have dulled thirst sensation, so you need to be proactive about drinking water. Bring plenty of water or a reusable water bottle to refill as you go through the day.
Try to avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol, as both can dehydrate your body. A good idea would be to add electrolyte drinks, as these can help maintain proper hydration, especially during longer outdoor activities.
Protect Against Sun Exposure
You may have found safe outdoor activities for seniors, but chances are, you're still not safe from the sun. You should wear:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Wide-brimmed hats
- Sunglasses with UV protection
In addition, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours if you're staying out for extended periods. The best scenario would be for you to stay in shaded areas (like under pavilions at the park or under an umbrella at the beach).
You should also learn to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They're mainly:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Excessive sweating
Pace Yourself at Community Events
One of our best senior summer tips is to pace yourself. The Labor Day festivities may include things like outdoor concerts, food stands, or gatherings near the lake. To prevent yourself from burning out, you should do the following:
- Take frequent breaks
- Avoid standing for long periods
- Sit in shaded areas to rest
Also, plan your schedule to include downtime so you don't become overly fatigued. Knowing your limits is key to enjoying the entire day without overexertion.
Be Cautious With Holiday Foods
Highlights of Labor Day celebrations are cookouts and picnics. It can be fun, but older adults should be mindful of food safety.
Perishable items (like potato salad or meats) shouldn't be left sitting in the sun since bacteria can grow quickly in warm weather. If you want to be on the safe side, then stick to freshly cooked foods.
In addition, if you have dietary restrictions (such as low-sodium or diabetic-friendly diets), bring your own prepared dishes to ensure you can eat comfortably and safely. It wouldn't hurt to bring some heart-healthy foods to share as well, as they'd benefit everyone.
Use Safe Transportation Options
Whether you're going to assisted living events, visiting your loved ones, or going downtown for the festivities, make sure that your transportation is safe and reliable. Those who still drive should avoid doing so at night if vision is an issue; consider asking a family member for a ride instead. Do note that public parking can be crowded during holiday events, so arranging a drop-off might be easier and more convenient.
If you use mobility aids, then take extra care to secure them properly in the vehicle. Check that they're in working order and replace worn-down parts ahead of time so you have reliable devices.
Be Mindful of Fireworks and Loud Noises
Fireworks and other loud celebrations can be fun, and they're normal parts of the holiday spirit. But the reality is that they can pose risks.
If you wear hearing aids, the sounds can be overwhelming or disorienting. So if you attend fireworks, sit at a safe distance to reduce exposure to both noise and smoke. Consider wearing earplugs, as they can also provide comfort without taking away from the experience.
Keep Medications Handy and on Schedule
In the midst of all the fun and excitement, it can be easy to forget about your regular medications. You might even leave the door without them!
Prevent this from happening by prepping the day before. Put all your medications in a labeled pill organizer. Make sure you put them in a cool place, as some prescriptions can lose effectiveness if left in the heat.
Also, set a phone alarm or reminder beforehand. These can help you stay on track, even during holiday activities.
Plan for Safe Socializing
Labor Day can be a wonderful chance for you to have senior social gatherings, as well as meet-ups with your family members. However, large gatherings can increase your exposure to illnesses.
Don't forget to practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly. If you can't, use bring and use hand sanitizer.
If you don't feel well, it's best for you to stay home rather than overexert yourself or spread the illness to others. The best scenario is to opt for outdoor gatherings since the fresh air provides better ventilation.
Put These Labor Day Safety Tips to Good Use
Labor Day can be an excellent time to get together with your family and friends. But it's not all fun and games; if you aren't prepared for the day, then it can all go wrong quickly.
Fortunately, you can use our Labor Day safety tips, which will increase the chances of everything going smoothly. With adequate sun protection, hydration, food safety, and medication management, you can have confidence while you're out and about. And when you don't have to worry, you'll naturally have a better time!
Get in touch with us now to hear more about senior living in Lake Mills, WI. LakeHouse Lake Mills offers weekly housekeeping and laundry services so our residents don't have to bother with mundane chores.