Spring Safety Tips for Seniors and Adult Day Care Benefits

With spring in the air, people, and families, including seniors, enjoy spending time outside with the sun. However, spring is also a time of seasonal risks for the elderly. From falls caused by weakened muscles to breathing issues from pollen, caregivers need to pay extra attention to seniors and the elderly.

Bringing your beloved family member to one of St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Center locations in St. Louis, Arnold, & Ste. Genevieve Missouri, is a safe way to have seniors cared for year-round, and especially during spring season challenges. With supervised activities and outings, seniors can spend the day socializing and having fun while giving their caregiver a rest for a few hours.

Common Spring Safety Risks for Seniors

While spring is a wonderful time of the year, with flowers blooming and many warm and lovely days, this season also has its safety risks. From changing weather that can cause hypothermia or overheating, to wet pavement or ground that may cause a fall, caregivers need to take extra precautions and preparation to ensure seniors have a pleasant and safe outdoor walk. Being outside is beneficial for the emotional and physical health of seniors, and with preparation, their walks can be enjoyable and memorable.

How Weather Changes Affect Senior Health and Mobility

After a winter spent indoors, many seniors may have weakened muscles from a lack of walking outside. Seniors need to have supervised exercise, as prescribed by their doctor, to keep their muscles strong and help keep them from falling. Slip and fall injuries are common for the elderly, and they can cause significant injuries. At an adult day care center, exercise professionals work with an individual to help increase strength and mobility to help reduce the risk of slips and falls.

In addition to strength and mobility training, spring days can have fluctuating temperatures. Seniors need to dress appropriately so as not to get chilled or overheated. Neck scarves are a great way to keep warm during breezy, cool days, and if the day warms up, the scarf can easily be removed. Monitoring the weather will help ensure seniors stay comfortable during spring walks, outings, and excursions. 

Outdoor Hazards Seniors Face During Spring

Spring weather often brings showers or sunny days that can melt ice, leaving wet spots. When walking outside, seniors need to be cautious about wet spots and avoid them if possible. Giving a senior a cane or walking stick can help with balance while walking. Proper footwear is essential for walking over uneven ground or on muddy pathways.

When walking during the early morning or late evening, it's important not to get caught in the dark, as many seniors have diminished eyesight. As a caregiver, plan walks accordingly, and be sure your senior has the right eyeglasses and sunglasses for improved visibility.

Managing Spring Allergies and Respiratory Issues

Beautiful spring flowers, budding trees, and flowering grasses are gorgeous to look at, but many people have allergies to the pollen these plants produce. Seniors should consult with their doctors to discuss adjusting their allergy medications during the spring bloom. In addition, be sure all medications the senior is taking are compatible with each other. Keep in mind that some allergy medications may make seniors feel drowsy or lightheaded.

Consider avoiding walks if the person is experiencing drowsiness from allergy medications.

For seniors with respiratory issues who depend on supplemental oxygen, be sure they can walk safely with their oxygen, or if taking them for a walk in a wheelchair, strap the oxygen securely. Keep the canisters upright in a walker or bag, secure the nasal fittings, and keep an eye on the oxygen levels in the canister.

The Role of Adult Day Care in Spring Safety

The spring season often has unpredictable weather, and caregivers for seniors must manage day-to-day activities based on weather conditions and fluctuating temperatures. Seniors who have seasonal allergies can be affected by spring pollen bursts and need proper medication administered at the right time.

Having your senior in an adult day care facility will give family members and caregivers a chance to do other things in their lives, like go to work, school, shop, or take care of young children, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their elderly family member is supervised.

At St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Centers, we offer supervised activities, exercise, and outings. Your loved one will have medication management, healthy meals, and social interaction. Spring outings with their peers can help seniors feel connected, especially when the outings include visits to botanical gardens, museums, and easy-access outdoor attractions.

With supervision, seniors can enjoy the spring season without fear of falling on wet surfaces or having an allergic reaction, as they will have their medications monitored by professionals. In addition, spending time outside can help seniors build muscle strength and mobility to help prevent falls.

Benefits of Supervised Activities and Professional Care

Staff members at St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Centers prepare their seniors for outdoor excursions by ensuring proper clothing and footwear, hot drinks and food, and sun protection as needed. Our team is trained to address any medical issues that may arise during their day-to-day stay with us, so you, as the caregiver, can rest assured they are under top-notch care.

Services we offer at our St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Centers locations include:

·        Music, dance, crafts, and games

·        Exercise and activity programs

·        Field trips and guest speakers

·        Trained drivers for transportation

·        Nutrition-based meals, including breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack

·        Licensed RN and LPN's

·        Hours from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Creating a Safe Spring Environment for Your Loved One

Being aware of spring safety risks for seniors is the first step toward ensuring their safety. Making sure any allergy medications are up to date, clearing walkways, staying hydrated, and doing gentle exercise are tasks caregivers can take on before spring arrives. For supervised care with medication management, exercise, and activities, consider signing your loved one up for one of St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Centers in the Greater St. Louis, Missouri, area. In addition, you can open your heart by donating to St. Elizabeth's Adult Day Care Center.

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