Labor Day Safety Tips for Seniors in Oroville, CA
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Did you know that Labor Day is celebrated in both the US and Canada on the first Monday in September? Another similarity is that both countries have made it a federal holiday since 1894!
The thing is, we do it bigger and better here in the US. It's the perfect time for seniors to get together with their loved ones and revel in the festivities, creating new memories to treasure forever.
However, preparing and planning accordingly is of the utmost importance. Otherwise, the day can quickly go south.
Read on for Labor Day safety tips that older adults can use in Oroville, CA, so their holiday is fun and safe!
Stay Hydrated in the Warm Weather
Typically, Oroville experiences hot and dry conditions during Labor Day weekend. According to AccuWeather, it'll be in the high 90s on Labor Day Monday, and the entire three-day weekend will be steaming hot.
As part of holiday safety for seniors, you should stay hydrated. This is already essential for older adults since their thirst sensation is blunted, but it's especially vital during hot weather.
Decrease your risk of dehydration by making it a habit to sip water throughout the day. Don't wait until you feel thirsty, as that's too late.
Carry a reusable water bottle so you can refill it as needed. Aim to drink at least one glass of water per hour, and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeinated beverages. These can worsen dehydration since they're diuretics.
Protect Against the Sun
As we've mentioned in the earlier section, it'll be hot during Labor Day weekend. Also, the forecast predicts fully sunny weather.
A big part of senior summer safety is protection against the sun. Even if you're used to being outdoors doing wellness activities, we can't emphasize how important sun protection is.
You should wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it 15-30 minutes before heading outdoors, and reapply every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
In addition, wear:
- Wide-brimmed hats
- Lightweight long sleeves
- UV-protective sunglasses
If you're attending an outdoor event, try to find shaded seating to prevent overheating.
Plan for Safe Outdoor Activities
One of the best seasonal safety tips we can offer you is that you should pace yourself. Otherwise, you'll risk both heat and normal exhaustion.
You should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. And if possible, don't do strenuous activities during peak sun hours between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Are you planning on walking trails around Lake Oroville or enjoying a community gathering at Riverbend Park? Then be mindful of uneven terrain. These can increase the risk of falls, which can put a damper on the day.
Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses
We briefly mentioned heat exhaustion earlier, but let's address it further. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are both real risks in Oroville's summer climate.
Regarding outdoor safety for older adults, you should know the warning signs of both:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Rapid pulse
- Confusion
- Excessive sweating
If you notice any of these symptoms, move to a cool place immediately. You should also drink water and seek medical attention if your symptoms get worse.
We recommend carrying a cooling towel or handheld fan to get extra relief while you're outdoors.
Dress Appropriately for the Weather
You may want to be decked out in your Labor Day best, but those garments may not be appropriate for the hot and sunny weather.
In general, you should stick to light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that's made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton or moisture-wicking blends. All of these factors can help you regulate your body temperature.
Plus, wear comfortable shoes. Good traction is essential if you plan on attending outdoor celebrations or navigating grassy or uneven areas.
If you're planning on staying out all day (and night), consider bringing a light jacket or shawl. Either can be useful in the evening when the temperatures drop and the sun goes away.
Be Aware of Travel and Traffic Safety
You may already know this, but Labor Day often brings heavier traffic on highways around Oroville, such as Highways 70 and 162. If you're traveling to visit friends or family, then you should allow extra time for travel.
Try to avoid driving during peak congestion hours so you don't waste time or get stressed. If possible, you should ride with a trusted family member or use public transit options to reduce stress further.
Always carry a charged cell phone, and keep a list of emergency contacts handy.
Practice Food Safety at Gatherings
Labor Day barbecues and potlucks can be fun and tasty, but you need to be cautious. Foods that have been sitting out in the sun can promote fast bacterial growth, especially in warm weather.
Try to stick with freshly prepared and properly stored items, and refuse raw or undercooked foods. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Are you the host? Then use insulated coolers with plenty of ice packs to keep perishable foods safe.
Stay Connected With Family and Friends
Celebrations can involve lots of hustle and bustle, which may be exciting at first. But it can become overwhelming, and you may need assistance in crowded or hot environments, especially if you've been in senior living and aren't used to such events anymore.
One of our top healthy aging tips is to stay connected with your loved ones. Going to events with a companion can provide social enjoyment and an added layer of safety.
You should always let your loved ones know where you'll be and set regular check-in times if you're going out alone.
Put These Labor Day Safety Tips to Good Use
If you want to have peace of mind this long weekend, then put our Labor Day safety tips to good use. They ensure that you and your loved ones have a smooth time while out and about, and you'll be able to fully focus on having an excellent experience.
If you want more information about senior living in Oroville, CA, get in touch with us now. Marbella Oroville has an Elevate® dining program that blends California's fresh flavors with our residents' favorite meals to bring quality taste and nutrition to their lives.