From Frost to Bloom: Embracing the Shifts of the Season

Living in the Midwest, I feel like we experience several season changes and the emotions that occur with it) within the same week as the true “season” changes.  Just last week in Illinois, we had been enjoying spring-like weather in the low 60’s that overnight increased to 84 degrees and then magically two days later we woke up to 46 degrees. These changes and the emotions that my family felt with them started me thinking about the elderly residents we serve and how the seasonal changes may affect them.

Seasonal changes bring a variety of benefits for the elderly, both physically and mentally. Each season offers unique advantages that can improve well-being and quality of life.

• Spring: With longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, seniors can enjoy outdoor activities without the harsh cold of winter. The fresh air and blooming nature can boost mood and alleviate feelings of isolation. Spring also encourages more physical movement, which supports joint health and cardiovascular wellness.
• Summer: The warmth helps ease joint pain, especially for those with arthritis. Increased exposure to sunlight provides natural vitamin D, which strengthens bones and improves immune function. Longer days also encourage social interactions, outdoor hobbies, and relaxation, promoting mental clarity and happiness.
• Autumn: Cooler weather makes it comfortable for seniors to be active outdoors without the exhaustion from summer heat. The crisp air and colorful foliage provide a beautiful environment that can uplift spirits. Fall foods, such as root vegetables and apples, offer essential nutrients for maintaining health.
• Winter: Though colder months can be challenging, they bring opportunities for cozy indoor activities that support mental stimulation, like reading, puzzles, or crafts. A slower pace can allow for rest and relaxation, which is crucial for overall well-being. The holiday season can also bring joy through family gatherings and traditions.

Throughout the year, the shifts in weather and scenery can enhance emotional well-being, encourage varied physical activity, and create opportunities for meaningful experiences. By embracing these seasonal benefits, seniors can enjoy a vibrant and healthy lifestyle.

Taking your local weather into account when planning outdoor activity opportunities for your residents is vital.

• Always having a light sweater or jacket readily available for those that chill easily, even the summer breeze can make a senior resident cold while we are feeling much warmer.
• Ensure you have aligned with your nursing department for precautions when it comes to outdoor summer activities for seniors. Certain medication can make people extra sensitive to sun exposure, heat and dehydration.
• Seek outdoor areas that offer covering from the sun for those who prefer shade.
• Schedule staff visits to the porch or patio areas where residents tend to sit to enjoy the outdoors. Regular 30 minute checks to ensure resident safety, assist with reapplying sunscreen or offering a drink is most helpful, especially for those that do not resident in the warmer and sunnier year round climates.
• Staying hydrated is a simple yet critical part of maintaining good health. But most people just aren’t getting the fluids they need every day. In fact, research shows 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.

As we age, drinking enough water is even more important. Dehydration is common among older adults, occurring in up to 28% of this population.[1]   Adults 60 and older are at greater risk for dehydration for a number of reasons, including natural drops in thirst levels and body composition changes. Older adults are also more likely to take diuretics and other medications that cause fluid loss in the body.  Even mild dehydration—as little as 2% fluid loss—can affect memory, mood, concentration, and reaction time.  Adding just a few glasses of water to your daily intake can have a positive effect on cognition, stabilize your emotions, and even combat feelings of anxiety. This is especially important for older adults who are at higher risk for both dehydration and impaired cognitive function.

Offering a variety of ways for our residents to pursue hydration will help stave off the possibility of dehydration during the summer months.

Schedule “porch” visits or activities with a fun decorated cart that can have revolving fluid offerings for each day of the week.

• Sliced Fruit Sunday- Fruit flavored water with a rim garnished fruit slice
• Mocktail Monday- Serve the non-alcohol flavored drink mixes frozen or on the rocks
• Tea-rrific Tuesday- Iced Tea/unsweetened and sweetened to individual taste, raspberry or peach flavored
• Watermelon Wednesday- Serve sliced watermelon or watermelon slushies
• Thirsty Thursday- Serve bubbly/carbonated flavored water
• Fruit Bar Friday- Serve frozen fruit bars
• Shake it Up Saturday-Serve lemon Shake ups

Whatever outdoor fun you plan for your residents, always plan for the ever changing weather and needs of those you serve.  Have intentionally designed the outdoor activities will put the control of weather demands in your hands and will ensure you have a fun and enjoyable outdoor activity opportunity for you and your residents.

[1] https://www.ncoa.org/article/10-reasons-why-hydration-is-important/