Hendersonville, NC, a beautiful southern city south of Asheville, comes alive on Labor Day weekend. Main Street turns into a hub of entertainment with draws such as the famous Apple Festival, bringing visitors from far and wide. Old-fashioned charm like this makes Hendersonville the ideal spot for seniors to celebrate holidays, but with these festivities come Labor Day safety tips essential for protecting older adults.
Holiday safety for seniors makes it easy for families to come together and celebrate, knowing their loved ones are protected. For starters, hydration is an absolute must, along with finding spaces to take frequent breaks. When you plan safe outdoor activities for seniors, everyone can enjoy Labor Day to the fullest.
If you’re unsure of where to start, this helpful guide works to keep seniors safe on Labor Day and beyond!
Hydration Is Key
Hot weather is a real concern when living in Hendersonville, NC. This means there might be a heat wave on or around Labor Day, making senior summer tips more important than ever, especially if temperatures are in the 90s.
Dehydration can sneak up on a person, which is why you need to hydrate even if you don’t feel thirsty. A person might be dehydrated and not know until it’s too late, so sip plenty of water — and often.
The best way to avoid dehydration is by taking sips of water throughout the day. Keep a bottle (or two) of water on you at all times. Know where you can purchase more water bottles if you run out.
Listen to your body. If you feel unwell, sit and rest. If you need to go home, then have someone take you.
You don’t have to spend the entire day enjoying the festivities. What matters is safety, and even a short time spent with family and friends on Labor Day is plenty.
To avoid becoming dehydrated, avoid drinking sugary drinks or alcohol. This includes soda.
Be aware of shaded spots before heading out for Labor Day, and prepare to take frequent breaks out of the sun. If possible, bring a blanket or a chair to sit on. You may also want to pack a small cooler with bottled water if you’re picnicking in a park somewhere or plan on being out for a while.
Dress for the Day
Always wear comfortable clothing. Opt for breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen. Synthetic materials can trap heat, making you hotter.
Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing a hat and sunglasses. You also need plenty of sunscreen for extra protection.
Even if you’re not walking far, always wear sturdy shoes. They should be slip-resistant or have grips on the bottom to help prevent falls. If you’re walking around downtown, it’s especially important to have good shoes.
It’s fun to dress up for events, but safety is paramount.
Watch the Heat
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are nothing to fool around with. You should always know the warning signs and take all precautions to stay safe. Some warning signs include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Confusion
Seniors are more susceptible, so pay attention to how you feel. If you feel off in any way, don’t ignore it.
Find a shady area, sit down, drink plenty of water, and ask for help if needed.
If your symptoms worsen during Labor Day activities or events, seek immediate medical attention. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion should never be ignored, no matter the person’s age.
If you’re at a big event like the Apple Festival, there might be a first-aid station nearby, so don’t hesitate to visit it. Before attending these events, check if first aid is available so you can be prepared in advance.
Plan for Crowds
Crowds can cause issues for anyone, but seniors have a greater chance of losing their footing and falling if someone bumps into them, especially if they have limited mobility. They may find it hard to keep pace, which is why you should always have some helpful tools available, including:
- Canes
- Walkers
- Portable chairs
Seniors should never be shy about sitting and resting often. When out with family, set a designated meeting spot if you get separated in a crowd or if cell phone reception is spotty, especially in a crowd. Also, ensure seniors always have fully charged phones with them.
If walking through a crowd feels daunting, then consider visiting busy areas earlier in the day, especially the Apple Festival.
Mind the Food
Whether you’re at a cookout or various assisted living events, always be mindful of the food, especially on Labor Day. These senior social gatherings often revolve around barbecues and enjoying food fresh from the grill, but it’s essential to be leery of undercooked meat.
Additionally, be careful with anything that’s mayo-based, such as pasta salads. It’s a good idea to only eat hot foods, ensuring they’re cooked through.
Avoid anything pink in the center. Also, avoid anything that’s been sitting out or is close to raw meat. If you’re unsure what to eat, bring some prepackaged snacks.
It’s a good idea to skip any of the following types of foods:
- Anything heavy
- Greasy foods
- Salty meals
These foods should be avoided if you have heart conditions, diabetes, or dietary restrictions.
Enjoy Hendersonville With These Labor Day Safety Tips
Hendersonville is an incredible town to spend Labor Day. Keep in mind that, no matter how fun these activities are, there are essential Labor Day safety tips to follow. Take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and know your limits.
By following these tips and tricks, you can have a great time on Labor Day! At TerraBella Hendersonville, we’re committed to providing our residents with a packed activity calendar on Labor Day and throughout the year.
Our Celebrations Activities & Events are perfect for connecting community members, forming lasting friendships, while having fun and socializing. There’s even our Dimensions Health & Wellness program, a great way to meet new people while having fun! If you’re ready to live your best life, then contact us today and schedule a tour of our incredible community.
