Summer Caregiving Tips That Often Go Unspoken

Submitted by Casey Schnacky, ADRC Outreach-Caregiver Coordinator

Summer offers unique opportunities for caregivers and the people they support. While warmer weather brings challenges like heat and dehydration, it also creates meaningful moments that can brighten everyone's day. 

Stay Ahead of Hydration 

As we age, the sensation of thirst decreases, making dehydration more com-mon. According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses in part because the body’s ability to regulate temperature changes with age. Offer water and other fluids throughout the day instead of wait-ing until your loved one feels thirsty. Water-rich foods such as watermelon, cu-cumbers, berries, and oranges can also help keep them hydrated. 

Enjoy the Outdoors—At the Right Time 

Take advantage of cooler morning or evening temperatures for a walk, time on the porch, gardening, or simply enjoying fresh air. Or that may look like opening a win-dow and listening to the birds. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, and watch for uneven sidewalks or other trip hazards. It’s not about restricting what can be done but is about making sure it is enjoyable and fun rather than ex-hausting. 

Keep Your Home Comfortably Cool 

Some older adults are reluctant to use air conditioning because they feel chilly or worry about energy costs. Some older adults resist turning the air conditioning on, even on genuinely hot days. For some, it’s habit. For others, it makes them feel cold or uncomfortable in ways that are hard to articulate. And for a few, there’s a cost concern they may not mention directly. 

Navigating this with care — finding a temperature that’s safe without making someone feel like their comfort doesn’t matter — is a small but real skill. It’s also a good example of what summer caregiving teaches you more broadly: being help-ful isn’t always the same as being right. Sometimes it’s about listening, adjusting, and finding the middle ground. Lightweight clothing, fans, closing blinds during the hottest part of the day, and finding a comfortable indoor temperature can help eve-ryone stay safe 

Know the Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illness 

Pay attention to increased confusion, unusual fatigue, dizziness, excessive sweat-ing, hot or dry skin, or dark-colored urine. If you notice symptoms, encourage your loved one to contact their healthcare provider promptly or seek medical attention if symptoms are severe. 

The Hidden Gift of Summer 

Beyond the practical tips, summer often brings something special. Longer days, sunshine, birds singing, visits with family, and quiet moments on the porch can encourage conversation, laughter, and connection. Even a short walk to the mail-box or sharing a glass of iced tea outside can lift spirits and create lasting memo-ries. 

As a caregiver, remember that your presence matters. The simple moments you share listening, talking, and spending time together—are often the ones your loved one treasures most. This summer, make time to enjoy those moments while taking care of yourself, too.