Caregiving responsibilities don’t take a break – not even for the beautiful days of summer when they arrive. In fact, caregiving can make it challenging for both a caregiver and their care recipient to find time and energy to appreciate the opportunities presented by warmer weather. Here we are re-sharing some some ideas with a few updates from our archives that we hope will help you and your loved one enjoy this summer.

• Spend some time outside– depending on your location and mobility, this may be sitting on a patio, deck, yard or courtyard. Set up chairs and take a few minutes to just breathe and enjoy summer. A stroll in a local park or a walk to a café for a cold drink is fun for those who can be active. Be sure to follow this link to guidelines for older adults for being safe in the heat.
• Bird watching is a popular activity and this can be done in any location, even from a window if going outside isn’t feasible. Setting up a small bird feeder can lead to many hours of pleasure. Online resources, books, or even apps for your phone can help you to identify birds.
• Frozen treats- whether it is ice cream, frozen yogurt or even frozen grapes or berries, these treats are delicious on a warm day. Visit an ice cream stand together, pick up some ice cream next time you are at the grocery store, or freeze some grapes or blueberries and savor them one at a time. Try making this one ingredient banana “ice cream” recipe. Whatever frozen treat appeals to you, make it special by sitting together to enjoy it.
• Music- Listen to music that says “summer” to you. Check out this Rolling Stone list of the 50 best summer songs of all time to see if any of your favorites are included. Many towns in the greater Boston area have free outdoor concerts in the summer. This link to Boston Central is a starting point to find events near you if an outing is feasible.
• Fresh produce and flowers-Nothing says summer like fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. If you are able, plant herbs in a container outside or on a windowsill and use the harvest to flavor salads, vegetables and meats. If herbs aren’t your thing, brighten your home with a flowering plant. If you are able, visit a farmers market and buy some locally grown produce.
• Games and puzzles- Have fun with your loved one playing a board game, cards or working on a jigsaw puzzle. Board games and cards lend themselves to playing on a patio or porch if a small table is available. If you don’t have an area to keep a jigsaw puzzle set up all the time, there are lots of jigsaw puzzle accessories that can make the process portable.
• Library resources- Summer is a great time to get better acquainted with your local library. Aside from books, many libraries have movies, talks and performances. This MA library site is a starting place to learn more.
• Outings- Be a tourist in your own area. Outdoor activities, sightseeing, arts and culture may be a fun addition to your summer. If accessibility is an issue, this link to visitma.com is a good resource for accessible venues.

As always, if you need help or resources as you navigate your caregiving and/or aging journey in any season, Springwell is here to help!