The Best Caregiving Items for a Stress-Free Summer of 2024

The summer season is about getting outside, relaxing, and spending time with family and friends, but for seniors, the heat and humidity can present potentially serious risks.

Fortunately, there are a variety of products designed to make seasonal caregiving much easier. To mark the summer solstice, we've highlighted several of our best sellers below. Include some or all of these items in your caregiving to-go bag, and you'll be ready for anything, whether you're planning a picnic, a camping trip, or an afternoon at the beach.

What items can help caregivers have a stress-free summer?

Here at Carewell, we carry various items designed to make caregiving stress-free. If you're planning a summer vacation or another seasonal excursion, make sure to pack the following:

Sun protection

Up to 1 in 3 Americans get sunburned each year. While there's no way to prevent sunburns entirely, you can significantly reduce your risk, by wearing a high-quality sunscreen that blocks the sun's ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

Dermatologists recommend wearing a sunblock that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. When outdoors, make sure to reapply it every two hours. That's especially true if you're swimming or doing something that makes you sweat, like a workout.

Learn more about sun protection.

Aloe vera

Sometimes, wearing sunblock isn't enough to prevent red or blistered skin. If you've got a beach or pool trip planned, make sure to pack some aloe vera. Aloe vera is a soothing gel derived from a plant of the same name. It has a moist, cooling quality that's thought to speed up the body's natural healing process. Aloe vera can also be used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by blisters, diabetic ulcers, and other slow-healing wounds.

Learn more about aloe vera.

Waterproof diapers and briefs

Many people with urinary and/or bowel incontinence avoid seasonal activities like swimming. After all, trying to find a toilet at the pool or beach in an emergency can cause lots of anxiety.

To reduce stress, consider packing waterproof diapers or a secure containment swim brief. These items are comfortable and discreet. What's more, they're made of breathable, clothlike materials that don't swell or break apart when wet. Their unisex design adheres to the body and can be worn under any type of bathing suit, including swim trunks or one-pieces.

Antifungal cream

Fungal infections, like athlete's foot and jock itch tend to flare up on summer days when it's hot and humid. If you care for a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility, have them wear socks and underwear that are lightweight and breathable. Moisture-wicking fabrics allow the skin to breathe and prevent the fungus from spreading or coming back.

Learn more about DermaRite antifungal cream.

Mobility devices

Many summer activities take place outside, but if your senior has poor mobility, due to a health problem like arthritis, you might stay in just to avoid a slip and fall. Instead of letting all that sunshine pass you by, take advantage of a mobility device.

This four-wheel folding rollator from McKesson can support people who weigh up to 300 pounds. The model features an oversize padded seat and a backrest made of polyurethane that's contoured for ergonomic comfort. It includes a zippered storage pouch on the bottom of the seat for transporting items like sunglasses, sunblock, or prescription medication.

Learn more about the McKesson 4-wheel folding lightweight rollator.

Meal and snack substitutes, and electrolyte beverages

A major component of a stress-free summer is good food. Many adults 65 and older have unique dietary needs, which is why we stock various snacks and drinks that provide nutrients and hydration. Here's a closer look at three of our top sellers:

1) Kate Farms, Nutrition Shake, Chocolate

This organic, plant-based nutrition shake from Kate Farms features ingredients like kale, broccoli, and pea protein. You can drink it right out of the carton or use it as the base in a smoothie. There's no powder or messy prep involved. Simply remove the cap and enjoy.

2) Orgain Organic Nutrition, All-In-One Protein Shake, Vanilla Bean

This vanilla bean all-in-one shake from Orgain contains 16 grams of protein, as well as 21 vitamins and minerals. The formula is clean and organic but tastes great. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the taste of summer.

3) Sqwincher Zero Quick Sticks

This electrolyte mix from Sqwincher is designed to be a sugar-free alternative to other high-calorie sports drinks. It's loaded with electrolytes and contains 100% of the Vitamin C daily value recommended for adults. Each box features a delicious assortment of flavors, including orange, fruit punch, lemon-lime, and grape.

First Aid Items

Last, but not least, if you're preparing for a summer vacation, consider packing a first-aid kit. Even if you plan on relaxing and doing nothing while you're away, accidents and injuries can still happen. We recommend including the following items in your first-aid kit:

• Medicated lip balm protectant

• Aquaphor advanced hand and body moisturizer

• At-home COVID-19 test

• Antihistamine eye drops for itch relief

• Neosporin first-aid antibiotic ointment

• Band-Aid flex fabric adhesive bandages

• Refresh Classic lubricant eye drops

It's also important to pack your care recipient's prescription medications as well as the names and contact information of their primary care provider and any other specialists they see regularly.

Do you have questions about stress-free summer packing?

As a family caregiver, packing for summer vacation can be stressful. If you're struggling to determine what your senior needs, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Our friendly Care Specialists can answer your questions and/or make recommendations. Call them at (800) 696-CARE or send a message to the following email address: support@carewell.com.