Cookout Ideas: Enjoying the Summer with Your Senior

When you think of summer, you may see images of a family enjoying time together outside. Grilling out while the younger generations play in the pool or run through the sprinklers is common across America, and there is nothing more relaxing and rewarding than an afternoon or evening spent grilling out with your family. The truth is, though, that the simple cookout can become quite complex when you are also in charge of the wellbeing of your elderly loved one. Eldercare professionals know that it can be difficult to ensure that your senior is safe and healthy in the heat while hosting a cookout for family and friends. As such, eldercare Chapel Hill professionals have provided the following cookout ideas to help you balance all of your responsibilities.

Celebrate Inside
One of the major concerns regarding seniors and cookouts is the heat, as it can become extremely hot due to both the weather and the grill itself. As such, why not move the party indoors? Indoor grills, such as a George Foreman grill, are wonderful alternatives if the heat is just too much for your senior. Additionally, other guests may appreciate the ability to enjoy one another's company in a more comfortable setting.

Create Airflow
If you are going to go forward with a traditional outdoor cookout, make sure that your senior has access to moving air. One of the things that makes the hot, sticky months of summer uncomfortable is the need for air circulation. Bring a fan outside on the patio so that your elderly loved one can stay cool while enjoying the festivities. If you have an air conditioned space that bridges the outdoors and the in (such as a Florida or sun room), have guests relax in this area instead.

Keep Hydrated
Oftentimes, guests at cookouts are served sodas and other beverages, but the heat requires seniors to stay hydrated. Make sure that your loved one drinks plenty of water at the party.
Providing care for elderly loved ones is a major responsibility—but it is one that is extremely rewarding. As such, it is important that you do everything in your power to ensure that your senior has a wonderful summer!