4th of July Celebration
4th of July Celebration; Independence day celebration

For most of us, the 4th of July celebration is something we look forward to. Although many Southern California Cities have banned fireworks, canceled firework shows, and closed the beaches due to the recent resurgence of COVID, you can still expect plenty of fireworks over the weekend. As a matter of fact, this may give people more reason to light up fireworks on their own.

The fireworks may not bother you as much as it bothers your pet, your infants, or your elderly parents who may have Dementia, PTSD from war, or becomes irritable of the uncontrollable noise.

Here are some things you can do to prepare and help comfort them over the 4th of July weekend:

  • Give them gentle reminders. 

Remind them what is going on so you can both plan for the best solution. Our elderly loved ones may be sensitive when you speak to them as if they do not know what is going on. So, you must apply empathy and slowly bring it up in a conversation.

  • Close all your windows to help cancel out the noise. 

Another way to add structure to your loved one’s life is by having them help with chores. Depending on the stage of Alzheimer’s disease that your loved one is in, they can do a variety of chores. They might be able to help you clear off the table after dinner, set the table before meals, fold towels and blankets, or dust. Find some chores that your loved one can do and put those into their daily schedule. 

  • Find the best distraction for them.

You can set them up with their favorite movie and turn up the volume to drown out the fireworks or have them listen to it with headphones.  

  • Advise them to stay inside.

Advise them to stay inside to avoid the fumes that may aggravate existing conditions like asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.

It is going to be a long night of fireworks and in the past, they continue even until past midnight. Besides the noise and fume issues, you must also be very vigilant of possible fires that could ignite due to illegal fireworks. Stay safe and this is a great time to be with your elderly loved ones if you are safe and can quarantine together.

If you or an aging loved-one is considering a Caregiver in Torrance, CA  please contact the caring staff at American Geriatric Care Management, Inc today at (310) 648-0614. 

American Geriatric was founded from personal experience of Ellen. Originating from a culture-rich country and strong family ties, Ellen felt the need of sharing the responsibility of taking care of the elders of the family. Growing up with the grandpas’ and grandmas’ love and care, spoiled with kisses and gifts and advice gave her the passion for returning the care.

In June 2011, American Geriatric was incorporated.It started out with a few staff. With the increasing number of clients signing up for in-home care, it expanded its network and multiplied the number of care providers to accommodate the need. In January 2012, health coordination and family dynamics support services were offered to cater to a more complex care needs of the elderly.

American Geriatric is now a full-fledged licensed Home Care Organization regulated by Home Care Services Bureau of California Department of Social Services, in full compliance with AB1217, The Home Care Services Consumer Protection Act.
Ellen Samson