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Welcome back to the Gateway Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care blog. We’re always grateful for your feedback—it’s clear that our shared experiences are making a real difference in the lives of caregivers and families like yours.

One of our most-requested topics is summer safety—especially as it relates to hydration and heat management for seniors with memory challenges. A thoughtful reader recently told us that focusing on hydration made a noticeable improvement in her mother’s energy and mental clarity. Inspired by that feedback, we’re revisiting this important topic with a broader five-step plan to help you care for your loved one during the hottest months of the year.

1. Stay Vigilant

This is the most important step on our list. If your loved one is mobile and tends to move around independently, they could accidentally venture outside during peak heat—putting them at risk of heat stroke or overexposure.

What You Can Do:

• Install safety locks or alarms on doors leading outside.
• Use motion detectors or monitoring devices near exits.
• Create routines that help your loved one feel secure indoors.

2. Avoid the Midday Heat

The sun is strongest between 11 AM and 3 PM, making it the most dangerous window for sun exposure.

Tips to Help:

• Schedule outdoor time for early mornings or late afternoons.
• Set up shaded areas if time outside is necessary.
• Offer calming indoor alternatives like puzzles, music, or light exercise.

3. Prioritize Hydration

Seniors—especially those with memory loss—can forget to drink water, which leads to dehydration before symptoms even appear.

Ways to Encourage More Drinking:

• Use a visual reminder tool like Ulla that blinks to prompt sips.
• Place water jugs and cups in common areas with friendly reminder notes.
• Flavor water with slices of fruit or a splash of juice to make it more appealing.

4. Track and Limit Movement with a Safe Zone

Technology can give you peace of mind. Many devices now allow you to set up “safe zones” and receive alerts if your loved one moves beyond them.

Popular Tools:

• GPS-enabled wearables from Garmin, AngelSense, or GPS SmartSole.
• Smart home systems with geofencing alerts.
• Location-sharing apps with emergency call features.

5. Keep It Cool

Managing the temperature inside and ensuring proper clothing choices can make a big difference.

Stay Cool Strategies:

• Dress your loved one in light, loose-fitting clothes.
• Use cool washcloths or offer a refreshing foot soak.
• Install affordable electric fans or mini portable fans for personal use.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed during peak sunlight hours to reduce indoor heat.

At Gateway Gardens Assisted Living and Memory Care in Winder, GA, our mission goes beyond professional care—we see ourselves as an extension of your family. Your trust in us inspires everything we do, and it warms our hearts to know that our blog continues to support your caregiving journey.

Let’s keep our loved ones safe, comfortable, and thriving this summer—together.