Labor Day in Kalamazoo, MI, is when the whole city gathers to celebrate, and where seniors can enjoy friends, family, and festivities. The town's lively downtown fills with energy as families come together to celebrate the holiday and the end of summer. Parks become a meeting spot for cookouts while children and adults enjoy games in the sun.
But keeping loved ones secure is paramount, making Labor Day safety tips something you have to factor into your holiday celebration. This is why you need to focus on holiday safety for seniors, taking into consideration hydration, fall prevention, and travel tips, to name a few.
If you're ready to plan your Labor Day using these senior summer tips, then this article has everything you need ot enjoy a safe holiday!
On Labor Day, areas quickly get crowded. This means that older adults need to be extra careful with safe outdoor activities for seniors, especially when walking on sidewalks.
Someone might bump them, and if the ground is uneven or there are curbs or cracks in the concrete, it can easily result in a fall. Seeing as falls are the leading cause of injuries among older adults, it's more important than ever to keep seniors safe, especially on holidays.
To reduce the incidence of falls at assisted living events and in crowded spots, be sure to leave early. That means don't rush.
If you're going to be late, let someone know instead of hurrying to get there. Your safety is more important.
Whenever possible, use railings to keep yourself safe. If you have a cane, walker, or scooter, be sure to use these walking assistance devices as well.
Always bring a foldable chair with you. This lets you sit when you need a break.
Agree on a meeting space in advance so you know where you're going and so you don't have to walk more than usual. This also helps if you're separated from your group when attending activities and events.
Holidays can make it easy to forget medication. The best way to ensure you don't miss a dose of your prescription is by setting a reminder.
You can put this on your phone or smartwatch. If you're out with someone, ask them to remind you as well.
It also helps to carry a pill organizer with you, especially if you're out all day. Always keep a list of medications and allergies with you, in your wallet. This helps in case of an emergency when the medical staff needs to be informed.
Keep a close watch on the time of day you take medication. Do you need to be out of the sun immediately after? Should you take medication with a meal?
Ask your doctor or pharmacistahead of time so you're prepared.
Labor Day often means traffic and congestion, especially when you're on your way to senior social gatherings. This means you should have your travel plans figured out in advance.
Since your day can quickly become hectic, always know if there are shuttles in busy areas, especially when attending large events. This makes parking easier for seniors and can prevent them from needing to walk far.
Carpool with friends and family. This also avoids long walks. Additionally, it's much safer to travel in groups.
Always inspect your mobility aids before using them. This includes:
If something needs fixing, you can do so before the Labor Day events.
Labor Day is about community and connecting with friends, both new and old. Spending the day with others makes the holiday more meaningful.
To stay safe, travel with a friend or family member. You can enjoy good conversation while having someone with you at all times.
If you do go out alone, ensure someone knows your plans and where you are at all times.
When out and about, use Labor Day as an opportunity to strengthen bonds with friends and family. Safety and joy are part of forming connections with others.
Being prepared gives peace of mind, especially for seniors and their loved ones. The best way to be prepared when attending events is by knowing where first aid stations are.
You should also know where cooling tents are located. This works to keep you safe, so know these locations ahead of time.
Always carry important information with you. This includes:
You should consider wearing a medical alert bracelet if you have any health conditions, including allergies.
Enable location sharing on your cell phones so a trusted family member can find you if you become separated.
When you're prepared for events, you know what to do if something unexpected happens.
Your phone can be a safety tool, and you might not even realize it. This Labor Day, be prepared by keeping your phone fully charged. You should also keep a power bank with you in case it runs out of charge, along with a portable charger.
As mentioned, use apps that share your location with family members. Use your phone to set reminders for hydration and medications. Save your local emergency numbers in your contacts.
Simple tech habits such as these make outings more secure for you and your family on Labor Day, during National Wellness Month, and all year long.
By following these Labor Day safety tips, you're working to keep yourself and your loved ones safe this Labor Day. Ensure seniors stay hydrated, keep their phones charged, and travel with others to keep them happy and healthy on Labor Day and other special occasions.
This is what sets LakeHouse Kalamazoo apart as a gem in the community. When we're not offering educational classes to enrich the lives of residents, we're organizing local outings to popular landmarks and restaurants. We take safety seriously, offering peace of mind.
If you're ready to embrace a community that prioritizes safety and embraces independence for everyone, call us today and see why residents love LakeHouse Kalamazoo!