Staying Safe and Embracing Summer
Summer is a time for celebration—longer days, blooming gardens, and the perfect excuse to indulge in a scoop (or two) of your favorite ice cream. It’s a season filled with warmth, energy, and opportunities for connection. At CHI Living Communities, we believe our residents should enjoy every golden ray the season offers—safely and comfortably. That’s why our team makes it a priority to support smart summer habits that help seniors stay healthy and happy all season long.
Whether it’s participating in a music event, enjoying time outdoors with friends, or simply relaxing in a sunny courtyard, our goal is to help each resident experience the joy of summer in ways that are both safe and fulfilling.
“We know how important it is for older adults to remain engaged, especially during the summer months,” says Dianne McFarland, Vice President of Clinical Services for CHI Living Communities. “Our teams across all campuses focus on promoting wellness through common-sense precautions that allow residents to stay active, social, and comfortable.”
Staying Hydrated Is Essential
Hydration is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent heat-related illness. At CHI Living Communities, residents are encouraged to drink water consistently throughout the day, even if they don't feel thirsty.
“Dehydration can happen quickly, especially for older adults,” McFarland explains. “We support hydration through creative approaches—such as offering cool beverages throughout the day, adding fresh fruit to water for variety, and serving seasonal favorites like popsicles or chilled fruit.”
Staying hydrated supports energy, digestion, and cognitive function, and is especially important during higher temperatures.
Enjoying the Outdoors—Safely
Spending time outside provides numerous benefits, including improved mood and increased vitamin D. Our communities are designed with shaded patios, walking paths, and seating areas that make it easy for residents to enjoy the fresh air comfortably.
Residents are encouraged to be outdoors during cooler times of the day, such as mornings or early evenings, and to wear light-colored clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunscreen to protect their skin.
“Sun protection is something we actively promote,” says McFarland. “We make sunscreen readily available and provide assistance as needed to ensure our residents are properly protected.”
Activities That Celebrate the Season
CHI Living Communities campuses offer a wide variety of seasonal programs that are both enriching and enjoyable. From live outdoor music events to indoor fitness classes and art workshops, residents are invited to participate in experiences that align with their interests and energy levels.
“We tailor our summer programs to reflect the season while keeping our residents’ comfort in mind,” says Sarah Marsh, Executive Director of St. Clare Commons, Perrysburg, Ohio. “Whether it’s a morning gardening group or an afternoon concert under the trees, our goal is to foster connection, movement, and joy.”
Cool Ideas for Hot Days
To beat the heat, it’s all about balance—staying cool while still staying active. Some of our favorite summer activities include:
- Indoor aerobics or chair exercises
- Morning gardening clubs
- Ice cream socials in shaded areas
- Art classes that bring the beauty of summer indoors
“We don’t stop having fun when it’s hot,” Marsh says with a smile. “We just get creative about where and when.”
A Culture of Care and Community
While summer brings warmth and light, it also calls for thoughtful monitoring of wellness. Our care teams remain attentive to signs of fatigue, heat stress, or dehydration and are always available to assist residents with their needs.
“Wellness is a shared responsibility,” says McFarland. “Our staff is trained to recognize early signs of discomfort or illness, but we also encourage residents to check in with one another. That sense of community is one of the things that truly sets us apart.”
Embracing the Season Together
At CHI Living Communities, summer safety isn’t about restrictions—it’s about empowerment. It’s about providing the support older adults need to enjoy the season fully, comfortably, and on their own terms. From refreshing hydration to smart sun habits, it’s all part of creating a life that’s full, joyful, and well cared for.
Because here, summer isn’t just a season. It’s a state of mind.