Summer Precautions with Elders

This month we have the longest hours of daylight! This is wonderful for a lot of people, because it can be easier to wake up in the morning and when home from work you may get to spend time outside with family and friends. For elders with cognitive impairment, the summer can be difficult. The early sunrise and later sunset can disrupt their sleep cycle. When they notice the sun rising at 5:00 a.m. they may think it is time to get out of bed. At night, they may not know it is time to get ready for bed, because it doesn’t start getting dark until after 9:00p.m. Something that can be helpful if this confuses the sleep cycle, are room darkening shades. Another obstacle in the summer for elders at home, is getting dehydrated. Drinking water is a double edged sword for a lot of seniors, because the more one drinks, the more they need to stand up, and walk to the restroom. If an elder experiences balance difficulties or incontinence, they are likely not wanting to drink a lot of water. But, things can be done to make it easier for them to get around when they need to.