What is June's National Great Outdoors Month all about? It's meant to be a time to get all of the family out of the house and exploring nature's treasures. Whether you spend a day fishing or head out on a weekend camping trip, it's all about spending time together outdoors.
Coinciding with June's National Great Outdoors Month are other national days and weeks. From National Fishing and Boating Week to the Great American Campout on June 22nd, make plans to get outside and make sure you involve your parents.
When you're spending time outdoors, there are safety practices that will keep you, your children, and your parents safe. Make sure you're putting these safety practices to good use during National Great Outdoors Month.
Protection From Insects
You don't want to have your parent return from a fun trip and deal with a disease caused by an insect bite. Tick bites are one of the concerns in many areas as Lyme disease continues to spread. Mosquitoes also spread diseases.
When your parents are in the woods or a grassy field, make sure they have an insect repellent designed to ward off ticks and mosquitoes. Light-colored clothing makes it easy to spot ticks when they're on the body. Tuck pants into socks and shirts into waistbands to keep the ticks from reaching the skin.
Dusk and dawn are ideal times for mosquitoes. Try to stay in a tent or cabin during those hours. If you really want to be outside for the sunrise or sunset, keep a campfire or citronella candle burning to keep them away.
Steps to Help Prevent Falls
If your parent has fallen before or doesn't have the best balance, partner your mom or dad's mobility level to the activities you choose. If your mom trips a lot, hiking along uneven trails isn't the best idea. Instead, look for level paths or boardwalks that wind through a nature preserve or along the coastline.
Your dad has diabetes and gets dizzy if he doesn't have a snack every couple of hours. Make sure you bring approved snacks and stop frequently so that his blood sugar levels don't dip too much while you're fishing, boating, or exploring a mountain trail.
Talk About Emergencies and Options
Discuss what to do in different situations before you leave the house. Make sure cellphones are charged and GPS systems are working. Ensure everyone has a way to keep track of what time it is. Talk about where to meet up if you get separated.
Your parent may not want to join you on long trips outdoors. Don't try to force them into going. Instead, hire home care aides to take over cooking meals and helping them remember to take medications. Caregivers can step in while you have a weekend away. Talk to a home care agency now and arrange respite care services.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elderly Care in Santa Monica, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789
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