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. At St. Clare Commons, 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.
“Summer is a favorite here,” says Sarah Marsh, Executive Director of St. Clare Commons. “You’ll find our residents enjoying the ducks in our pond, tending to the garden beds, or just relaxing in the shade with friends. We want everyone to soak up the joy of summer without risking their health.”
And that starts with hydration.
Sip happens—drink up!
Let’s face it, drinking eight glasses of water a day isn’t the most thrilling summer bucket-list item, but it’s one of the most important. “Seniors are more prone to dehydration due to changes in body composition and a decreased sense of thirst, says Dr. Sudheer Polisetty, St. Clare Commons’ Medical Director. “We keep drinks refreshing and fun so staying hydrated feels more like a treat than a chore.”
A good rule of thumb? If you’re waiting to feel thirsty before drinking, you’re already behind. Set a timer, bring a water bottle everywhere you go, and take small sips often.
Shade is the new chic
Sunshine may be good for the soul, but too much can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion, or worse—especially for older adults. Fortunately, St. Clare Commons makes outdoor safety a priority. “We encourage residents to enjoy outdoor spaces in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler,” Sarah adds. “It’s all about knowing your limits and choosing comfort.”
For mid-day hours, shaded courtyards, awnings, and indoor common areas provide cool, social alternatives. Lightweight clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses also go a long way in staying comfortable and protected.
The scoop on sunscreen
You’re never too old—or too wise—for sunscreen. Daily use, even on cloudy days, helps protect skin from harmful UV rays and reduces the risk of skin cancer. For those with more sensitive skin, mineral- based sunscreens are a gentler choice. “Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and don’t forget spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of feet,” Dr. Polisetty advises. “We remind our residents regularly and even offer assistance for those who need help applying it.” Reapplication every two hours is key, especially after sweating or spending time outdoors.
Bonus tip: Keep a travel-sized tube in your walker pouch or purse for easy touch-ups.
Cool ideas for hot days
To beat the heat, it’s all about balance— staying cool while still staying active. Some of St. Clare Commons’ 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 just because it’s hot outside,” Sarah says with a smile. “We just get a little more creative about where and when we do it.”
Check on friends—and yourself One final but essential tip: check in. Extreme heat can sneak up on people, especially those living alone. Whether it’s a neighbor down the hall or a family member across town, regular wellness check-ins are simple ways to show you care.
At St. Clare Commons, the staff performs routine wellness checks and remains alert for signs of overheating, such as fatigue, dizziness, or confusion. “We don’t just care for residents—we care about them,” Sarah says. “Summer is a great time to reconnect, laugh, and enjoy life together. Safety is just part of how we show that love.”
Savoring the season—together At St. Clare Commons, summer safety isn’t about restrictions—it’s about empowerment. It’s about giving seniors the support they need to enjoy the season 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.
Learn more about St. Clare Commons at CHILivingCommunities.org/SCC. CHI Living Communities is a business line of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI), which joined with Dignity Health to form CommonSpirit Health, a nonprofit national health system committed to advancing the health of all people and dedicated to serving the common good. ✲
