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4 Summer Fun Ideas for Loved Ones with Memory Issues

Posted: 4/18/2016 9:58 AM by Interim HealthCare

Memory issues can make many things more difficult with your elderly loved one, especially family fun in the summer. This doesn't have to be the case, though, especially if you try some of these tips.

Bring Back Some Family Traditions
Your loved one or your family may have some summer family traditions that everyone enjoyed. If you're no longer engaging in those traditions, consider bringing them back. In some cases, you may need to bring them back in a smaller scale. For example, if your family tended to have huge get togethers where people brought dishes and you all grilled out, try doing that on a smaller scale so that it's not as overwhelming. You can simulate camping trips by setting up a tent in the back yard or consider chasing fireflies together at twilight.

Get Outside
Sometimes a change of venue from inside during the colder weather to outside during warmer months can do everyone a bit of good. If your loved one used to enjoy gardening, for example, but finds it difficult to do much, try something similar. Start up a container herb garden together that you can tend when she feels like doing so. Say your loved one enjoyed a few rounds of golf during nice weather. Try setting up a putting green for him. Just doing something outside can be invigorating for your loved one, especially if you don't overdo it, and doing something he used to love can bring memories back for your loved one.

Keep Comfort in Mind
Comfort is definitely a big part of helping your loved one have fun during the summer. Extremes aren't very comfortable for your elderly loved one, especially if she's dealing with dementia or Alzheimer's. Crowds, extremely hot weather, and loud noises can all be overwhelming for your elderly loved one. Make sure that your loved one is dressed comfortably and that she can go somewhere else, like inside the house or to a quieter area, if the outdoor activities get to be too much for her.

Safety Is Important
One of the biggest dangers for elderly loved ones during the summer is dehydration. You need to make sure that your loved one has plenty of cool, fresh water available and that she drinks it regularly while outside. It's also a good idea to have an umbrella handy, as well as sunscreen, a hat with a wide brim, and anything else that she needs for the specific adventure you're planning.

Keeping your loved one safe and happy during the summer, even with memory problems, is easier than you might think. Try asking your loved one's elder care providers for other ideas that might work for your loved one.

If you have an aging loved one in need of elder care contact Interim HealthCare today.