The 4th of July is always a fun day for Americans nationwide as we celebrate our Independence with picnics, parades and fireworks. Be sure to involve your senior loved ones in your celebrations, but also be aware of any event where there will be heat, bugs, noise, smoke and possibly rambunctious children.
Here are some suggestions to celebrate July 4th with seniors in mind:
1. Fireworks from Afar: Fireworks shows are a staple of July 4th, but they usually involve large crowds, lots of noise and heavy traffic. Do some scouting ahead of time to find a good spot to watch the show with your senior loved one, without being directly in the middle of action. Perhaps it’s a hill away from the crowd, a boat in the lake or river, or even your own balcony. Wherever you end up, don’t forget to bring a light jacket or blanket for your loved one in case it gets chilly at night.
2. Backyard BBQ: Throw a barbecue and invite family and friends over to enjoy the day. Enlist your senior loved one to help pick the party music or make a fruit salad to help them feel engaged. Make sure seniors have plenty of shade, a comfortable place to sit and access to food that fits their dietary needs. If your attendees enjoy a good sing along, direct everyone in rousing renditions of tunes, such as America the Beautiful.
3. Parade Watching: Everyone loves a good old fashioned parade. Stake out a shady location early to make sure to have a comfortable place for your loved one to sit. Remember to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing which is best for comfort and air circulation. Make sure your senior loved one is properly hydrated throughout the day and be sure to know ahead of time where the bathrooms are located. Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen!
4. Picnic in the Park: Pack up the whole family and head to a local park for a scenic picnic. Be sure to bring a comfortable chair for seniors or get there early to find an open picnic table. Some parks allow you to reserve pavilions with shade and tables ahead of time for a small fee. Don’t forget the fishing poles, kites and Frisbees — plan easy activities that seniors can engage in.
5. Baseball Game: Going to a baseball game is another great 4th of July activity for senior citizens. Some hot dogs, beers and a rousing rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” is a great way to celebrate America. Try to find seats in the shaded part of the stadium and don’t forget to stay hydrated. If you don’t live in a city with a…
This article was sourced from Enlivant.