Spending time outdoors can have a profound impact on a person’s physical and emotional well-being. This is no less true for people living in memory care communities, where carefully curated outdoor spaces allow residents to enjoy the beauty of nature while feeling secure. However, summer brings about its own unique challenges, such as heat exposure, hydration concerns, and potential wandering risks.
Memory care communities thoughtfully ensure outdoor spaces are safe during the warmer months. Well-designed spaces foster calm, joy, and independence while prioritizing every resident’s health and safety.
The Importance of Outdoor Time for Memory Care Residents
The benefits of time spent outdoors, especially for people living with memory-related conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia, are well-documented. For instance:
- Exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep cycles.
- Fresh air and greenery reduce stress while fostering a sense of calm.
- Gentle physical activities like walking in gardens promote mobility and overall health.
- Soothing outdoor environments can lift moods and ease restlessness.
Memory care communities recognize these benefits and go above and beyond to make outdoor time safe, enjoyable, and engaging. From designing purpose-driven landscapes to incorporating thoughtful safety measures, communities bring summer joy to residents while addressing their unique needs.
Accessible, Secure, & Designed with Care
Enclosed Gardens for Peace of Mind
Wandering can be a safety concern for our loved ones in memory care, particularly in unfamiliar or open settings. One of the thoughtful ways that communities address such challenges is by designing enclosed gardens. These gardens allow residents to wander safely within clearly designated boundaries rather than feeling confined indoors.
Many such spaces incorporate subtle physical barriers that don’t feel restrictive but provide essential safety. For instance, hedges or trellises naturally guide movement while preventing residents from accessing potentially unsafe areas.
Non-Slip Pathways
Rain can make outdoor pathways and surfaces slick. Communities address this by maintaining paths that are non-slip and free of trip hazards. Regular maintenance ensures outdoor paths remain clear of debris and cracks that could cause accidents.
Accessible walkways are also wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, further ensuring inclusivity and safety.
Strategically Placed Seating Areas
Summer heat can take a toll, and many older adults can find it difficult to stand for long periods. To address these challenges, seating areas are strategically placed throughout outdoor spaces, often under shade structures like pergolas, umbrellas, or large trees.
These spots create inviting places for residents to rest, socialize, or simply take in their surroundings comfortably. Some communities also offer cooling benches during the summer months to provide additional relief on hot days.
Heat & Hydration Safety Precautions
Shaded Areas to Beat the Heat
Excessive heat is dangerous for anyone, but older adults are particularly vulnerable to dehydration and heatstroke. Memory care communities are proactive in combating this through copious shaded areas. Whether it’s a gazebo nestled in the garden or covered patios overlooking lush views, these shaded spaces ensure that residents are protected from the sun’s intensity while still able to delight in the outdoors.
Hydration Stations for Easy Access
Hydration is another top priority in the summer months. Many outdoor spaces include water coolers, hydration stations, or refreshment carts stocked with cold beverages and hydrating snacks. Team members also encourage residents to stay hydrated while engaging outdoors, often offering extra reminders and support if needed.
Cooling Measures
Some communities go above and beyond by introducing cooling measures like misting fans or portable air coolers in outdoor spaces, making the summer heat more bearable. Cooling towels or hats with built-in sun protection are also sometimes provided to add an extra layer of care.
Thoughtfully Planned Outdoor Activities
Even when the weather warms up, memory care communities don’t miss a beat when it comes to organizing engaging activities outdoors.
Gardening Programs
Gardening is often a beloved activity included in memory care outdoor programs. Raised garden beds ensure residents can plant, tend, and harvest with ease. The sensory engagement of gardening, from feeling the soil to smelling flowers, often sparks joy and connection.
Peregrine Senior Living at Clifton Park features tranquil and serene gardens that provide natural beauty and caters to the well-being of the community members.
Morning or Evening Events
To avoid the hottest part of the day, many memory care communities host outdoor events during the cooler hours of the morning or early evening. This allows residents to enjoy the outdoors safely while participating in relaxing or stimulating activities.
Our community provides organized outdoor events, nature, walks, and activities.Scenic Walking
For residents who enjoy movement, walking paths in shaded areas provide a wonderful outlet. Peregrine Senior Living at Clifton Park offers walks throughout the week, indoors, outdoors, or on our patio.
A Team Behind the Scenes
The safety and comfort of residents during the summer depend on more than just design and planning. Dedicated team members ensure that outdoor spaces and activities are safe, enjoyable, and enriching.
- Monitoring Sun Exposure: Staff members keep a watchful eye on sun exposure, making sure each resident uses sunscreen, wears a hat, or takes a break in the shade when needed.
- Guided Activities: For group activities taking place outdoors, staff ensure participation is supportive and that activities don’t cause exhaustion or frustration.
- Emergency Preparedness: Care teams are always ready to address emergencies like sudden changes in heatstroke symptoms or dehydration, creating peace of mind for families.
Thoughtful Outdoor Spaces for a Bright Summer
From secure gardens to shaded rest areas and engaging activities, memory care communities pour love and intention into creating safe, inviting outdoor spaces during the summer months. Every detail is centered around supporting residents’ well-being, allowing them to bask in the many joys of nature while staying secure.
If you’re exploring memory care options and want to learn more about how communities prioritize safety and engagement during every season, we encourage you to visit Peregrine at Clifton Park. Our team is here to offer personalized support and answer any questions as you search for the best fit for your loved one.
