Labor Day Safety Tips for Seniors in Frankenmuth, MI
Surrounded by greenery and a short walk from the Cass River, Winter Village in Frankenmuth, MI, is only a short distance from several Labor Day celebrations one might want to take part in. However, not everyone can handle every aspect of a celebration, and some seniors may find such days especially challenging.
Below, we offer a guide on some practical Labor Day safety tips to ensure that you can enjoy what the day provides while remaining safe. Read on to discover senior summer tips, such as assistance with hydration, outdoor activities, and pacing oneself. Learn more about holiday safety, and keep your senior social gatherings both fun and safe.
Labor Day Safety Tips for Seniors
Holiday safety for seniors starts with creating a day plan that includes things like:
- Water supplies
- Shade options
- Accessible snacks
- Medication storage
- Emergency contacts
Put all of this information into a small pouch, and then make sure everyone knows where it might be, especially your senior family member.
You should also watch out for the heat. Prepare by checking the heat index before leaving, or doing so further beforehand, and only staying outside during cooler hours. Remember that, no matter how fun things might be, it's better to keep safe than take unnecessary risks as a senior.
Once every person in the family has the day plan and understands where you are all going, set check-in times on your phone and make sure everyone knows what to do in the case of an emergency.
Walking and Bridge Safety Basics
As you walk, make sure to favor paved pathways and railings. Those who are less sure on their feet, such as senior friends and family, should use these while avoiding wet flooring or what appear to be slick areas.
Make sure that all members of the family also cross at marked areas and wait for the traffic to come to a complete stop. If a family member is not able to do this alone, then they should not be allowed to wander by themselves.
Make sure that those who need rest also have the opportunity to wait before moving on. If they need to sit down between short movements, allow them to do so to prevent someone from becoming overexerted.
In some cases, you may even want family members to wear bright vests or clip-on lights, especially at night during celebrations, in case they wander into a potentially dangerous area.
Walk Timing and Insect Safety
Plan your routes with potential stops included to try to avoid areas where people may encounter larger swarms of insects, such as mosquitoes. If this is difficult, keep a small supply of insect repellent around in a sealable bag, and then reapply it as necessary to repel insects.
To protect from insects that do not fly, try to help your loved ones avoid tall grass or slow water edges at dusk, as this is when insects are likely to be most active. Also, give them long ways to wear. Not only will these be more comfortable, but they will also allow you to ignore or avoid the worst of the problematic bugs that might otherwise bother you.
Mobility and Shuttle Options
If you cannot travel easily around the area, try to pre-plan longer walks or even consider hiring a local mobility scooter. Make sure to confirm that locations have on-ramps and elevators, and that your mobility scooter can move around the areas.
When you're waiting during travel between events, make sure to stay in the shade. You can then ensure that body temperature does not escalate, and people remain comfortable throughout the day. Consider using the local shuttle too, and keep taxi numbers in your phone just in case.
Boat and Water Activity Safety
Instead of paddling alone, look into guided trips or organized events over Labor Day. If there are professionals on the boat, they can assess the conditions of the location and let you know if water sports are safe outdoor activities for seniors today. They are also much more likely to have high-quality flotation devices that those in need of extra care can have on hand.
When you get on, however, look for accessible and shaded seating to ensure the comfort of everyone in your group.
Holiday Safety for Seniors and Social Gatherings
If your loved ones are sensitive, don't have a gathering that grows too large. Not everyone can handle the noise and ruckus of an especially sizeable group. Then, choose a quieter venue, especially if they use hearing aids or are otherwise going to have difficulty with:
- Engines
- Fireworks
- Crowds
- Shouting
- Loud music
Consider setting a time limit, too. Not everyone will feel comfortable with sharing discomfort and may not wish to feel like a burden. By doing this, everyone has the same understanding of when the celebration ends.
Independent Living Events at Winter Village
If you want to know what's happening at our senior living community, check our activities and events page. We have several that may suit the needs of your loved one, and will be inside even during peak heat.
Our staff will also understand the best activity for you and your loved one to share, whether that is in a resident's room or a communal space. Ask what is okay to share with them, and then coordinate to meet there with others you plan to be with.
So, if your loved one is a resident with us, you can choose between the celebrations around Frankenmuth or settle into our community for some quality time with them while they remain in our care.
Keeping Senior Acquaintances Safe
With these Labor Day safety tips, you can enjoy the celebrations occurring throughout the region or spend the time under our wing. Either way, you have several options available to you and can take the weight of worry off your shoulders.
If you want to know more about our senior living options, such as our engaging regular activities like billiards and darts, and fresh, made-from-scratch meals from talented chefs, get in contact. Come by and have a tour to find out how we can benefit your loved one and you today.