Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors and what better way to do so than by having a picnic? Whether it's in a park, on the beach, or even in your own backyard, picnics are a fun and relaxing way to spend time with family and friends. Here are some of the benefits of taking a picnic in the summer.

First and foremost, picnics are a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it can be difficult to find time to just sit back and enjoy the simplicity of nature. However, when you're on a picnic, there are no distractions. You can unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether it's the sound of birds chirping, the feel of the grass beneath your feet, or the scent of flowers in the air, these sensory experiences can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

In addition to being a stress-reliever, picnics also provide an opportunity to get some exercise. Whether you're playing frisbee, throwing a ball, or going for a walk, picnics encourage physical activity. Being outside and moving around not only improves your physical health but also boosts your mood and increases your energy levels. So instead of spending your summer indoors, why not gather some friends or family members and enjoy a picnic while getting some exercise at the same time?

Another benefit of picnics is the opportunity to try new and delicious foods. When you're eating outside, it's a great chance to experiment with different types of cuisine. You can pack a variety of finger foods, sandwiches, fruits, and snacks to enjoy. You can even get creative and make some homemade treats, like cookies or muffins. Picnics are all about good food and good company, so it's the perfect time to indulge in some tasty treats.

Picnics also provide the opportunity for quality time with loved ones. Unlike eating at a restaurant or having a meal at home, picnics allow you to really connect and engage with those around you. You can have meaningful conversations, play games, or simply enjoy each other's company in a relaxed and peaceful setting. Picnics can strengthen relationships and create lasting memories that you'll cherish for years to come.

Lastly, picnics give you the chance to explore new places and appreciate the beauty of nature. Instead of staying in the same familiar surroundings, you can venture out to different parks, beaches, or scenic spots. You can discover hidden gems and experience the wonders of the great outdoors. Whether it's a stunning sunset, a serene lake, or a picturesque mountain view, picnics allow you to take in the beauty of nature and appreciate the world around you.
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In conclusion, taking a picnic in the summer has numerous benefits. From a chance to disconnect and unwind, to getting some exercise and enjoying delicious food, to spending quality time with loved ones and appreciating the beauty of nature, picnicking is an activity that has something for everyone. So grab a blanket, pack some good food, and head outdoors for a fun and relaxing picnic experience this summer.

Yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
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As the summer months approach, it is crucial for senior citizens living in senior living communities to take proactive measures to stay cool and protect their well-being. The elderly are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, making it imperative to adopt safe strategies for beating the heat. This article highlights some of the safest ways for senior citizens to stay cool during the scorching summer months while residing in a senior living community.
Hydration is Key: One of the most vital aspects of staying cool in the summer is proper hydration. Encourage senior citizens to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they don't feel thirsty. It's essential to avoid excessive intake of caffeine and alcohol, as these can contribute to dehydration. Placing water stations in common areas and providing reminders to drink water can be helpful in promoting hydration.
Utilize Air Conditioning: Ensure that the senior living community has adequate air conditioning in common areas and individual living spaces. Regular maintenance and timely repairs should be conducted to keep the cooling systems in optimal condition. Encourage residents to spend time in air-conditioned areas during the hottest parts of the day, especially if their own living spaces are not adequately cooled.
Dress Appropriately: Encourage seniors to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. Light colors can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Provide educational materials on appropriate clothing choices for the summer months to raise awareness among residents.
Seek Shade and Limit Outdoor Activities: Advise seniors to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest times of the day, usually between 10 am and 4 pm. Encourage them to spend time in shaded areas, such as covered patios or community rooms with adequate ventilation. If seniors do venture outside, recommend they wear wide-brimmed hats and use sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV rays.
Stay Cool with Water-Based Activities: Organize water-based activities like pool exercises or water aerobics, which provide a refreshing and low-impact way to stay cool. If the senior living community doesn't have a pool, consider installing misting stations or organizing water games to help residents cool off safely.
Promote Community Support: Encourage residents to look out for one another during the summer months. Develop a buddy system to ensure that everyone is aware of each other's well-being. Regular check-ins and reminders to stay cool and hydrated can be beneficial in preventing heat-related issues.

Senior citizens living in senior living communities can enjoy a safe and comfortable summer by implementing these strategies. Prioritizing hydration, utilizing air conditioning, dressing appropriately, seeking shade, and participating in water-based activities are essential for staying cool and avoiding heat-related illnesses. By fostering a supportive community environment, residents can collectively ensure the well-being of all during the summer months.
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As people age, it is important to keep their minds sharp. Playing cards and games can be a great way for seniors to stay mentally active and engaged. Seniors can benefit from playing cards and games in numerous ways.

First, playing card and board games can help seniors maintain their mental acuity. Studies have shown that regularly playing card and board games can help reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Card and board games can help seniors stay mentally sharp by stimulating their brains and promoting cognitive function.

Second, playing card and board games can help seniors stay socially engaged. Playing cards and board games can help seniors connect with other people and create relationships. These relationships can help promote emotional wellbeing, which is important for seniors. Playing games with family members or friends can help seniors stay connected, even if they are not able to physically be together.

Third, playing card and board games can help seniors stay physically active. Many card and board games require physical activity such as shuffling cards or moving pieces around a board. This physical activity can help seniors stay physically fit and active, which is important for overall health.

​Finally, playing card and board games can help seniors stay emotionally healthy. 

Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264

Senior citizens at some retirement communities often struggle to find meaningful ways to bond and build friendships.  Not at Prairie Homestead!

Watching classic movies together can be a great way to bring seniors together and create a sense of community. This type of activity provides a shared experience that can be enjoyed and discussed afterwards. Organizing a movie night for seniors in a retirement community can be an easy and fun way to encourage socializing and build friendships. Many seniors may have fond memories of watching classic movies as children or with friends as adults. This can be a great way to bring back nostalgia and spark conversations.

The first step to organizing a movie night for seniors is to select the movie. This can be done by having a discussion with the seniors and finding out what type of movies peak their interests. It can also be helpful to look up classic movies from the golden age of Hollywood. Many of these movies have great stories, which can be appreciated by all generations.

Once the movie is chosen, the next step would be to secure a space for the movie night. Retirement communities may already have a communal space or theater that can be used. Alternatively, the movie can be shown in a resident’s apartment, depending on the size of the group.

Another important factor to consider is the snacks and refreshments. Popcorn, candy, and drinks are all great options for movie night snacks. Setting up a snack bar or assigning snacks to each person can be a great way to encourage socialization and get everyone involved.

​Overall, movie night can be a great way to bring seniors together and create a sense of community. Not only can it foster new friendships, but it can also provide a shared experience that can be enjoyed and discussed afterwards. With the right movie and snacks, seniors can enjoy a night of nostalgia that will bring everyone closer!

Gardening can be an excellent way for senior citizens in independent living facilities to come together and have a shared experience. Gardening is an activity that can be both relaxing and rewarding, and it can be a great way to socialize and get to know one another.
There are many benefits to gardening for senior citizens. It can help reduce stress, improve mental alertness, and provide a sense of accomplishment. It can also give them a sense of purpose and a way to stay active. Gardening also provides an opportunity to get outdoors, get fresh air, and enjoy nature. 
To get started, each resident could choose a flower or vegetable they would like to grow. The residents could then work together to plan out the garden. The garden could be planted in the communal area, or each resident could have their own space in the garden. The garden could be set up with raised beds, or the residents could get creative and use containers such as old wheelbarrows and buckets. 

The residents could then work together to tend to the garden. They could water and weed the garden, as well as harvest the vegetables and flowers when they are ready. They could work together to find a solution if there are any pests or diseases. 

​Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264

We can barely turn around without seeing advertising for the next "big holiday" in stores, magazines, cooking shows, and local celebrations. Halloween becomes Christmas with hardly a pause for Thanksgiving in between, and then, before we know it, it's Valentine's Day!
 
But whatever happened to some of those holidays we enjoyed in the past, the ones that don't have special desserts or sales or gifts?  Do you recall these?
 
Arbor Day.  Can you remember planting trees as a Bluebird or Cub Scout at the end of April each year? This holiday still shows up on the calendar, but it rarely makes the news. Established in the United States in 1872, President Theodore Roosevelt issued an Arbor Day Proclamation specifically to children in 1907, which is why tree planting was a focus for children's organizations and school groups for years. 
 
Flag Day. The official flag of the United States was adopted in 1777, but there was no Flag Day until 1949. A few communities still host parades on Flag Day in June, and many people fly their flags at home on this day. This year, President Joseph Biden issued a proclamation declaring a "Flag Week," following Flag Day.
 
Birthdays. Of course people still celebrate birthdays, and children's parties have grown from a little cake and ice cream to a celebration for dozens at a theme park. But what did you do on your birthday as a child? Did someone bake you a special cake? Was there an extra candle on top, called "one to grow on?" Some families gave playful, non-painful "spankings," one for each year of the child's age. (Maybe it's best that some holiday traditions pass away.)
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264

As we age and confront changes in our homes, we might find that we no longer have the space to hang every plate, shelve every Beanie Baby or store every Christmas sweater. But we just can't throw everything away! We spent good money on those things, we thought some of them would increase in value, and besides, we can still drink out of that Looney Tunes glass.
 
What can we do when we just can't throw things away?
 
Figure out why we're keeping it. Is it useful? Do we love it so much we just can't part with it? If someone gave us a newer version, could we get rid of the older one? If it really doesn't serve any purpose, useful or aesthetic, it might be time to let go.
 
Ponder what will become of it later. Do our heirs want our fishing rod collection? If so, why not give it to them now? If not a single member of the family wants the Spode china, and we never use it, there's no point in keeping it now, even if it was Grandmother's treasure. 
 
Will someone else treasure it? The local historical society might love to put our aunt's cedar chest on display. A women's shelter could use the piles of blankets or set of glasses we can't use anymore. The children down the street might actually love to select something from our Santa Claus collection. 
 
Passing things along is not waste. In fact, it's more wasteful to clutter the home with excess when it could be functional or beloved somewhere else. We've enjoyed our collections. Maybe it's time to pass them on.
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213

The National Institute on Aging says, "More than one in three people age 65 years or older falls each year." These falls are often life-changing. A broken bone, a stay in the hospital or weeks of physical therapy can follow.
 
But there are some simple ways to minimize your chance of falling.
 
1. To begin with, talk to your health care provider about your medications. Many can contribute to dizziness, confusion or other factors which could make you unsteady. 
 
2. Aging causes new problems, but you can be prepared despite getting older. Foot problems from diabetes, slower reflexes, muscle weakness, gait issues-- all of these can be improved with the diet, exercise, or medical care. Stay as active as possible.
 
3. Dress sensibly. Find supportive shoes, hem up too-long pants, and don't walk around in stocking feet.
 
4. Take a look at your home. Eliminate slippery throw rugs and anything blocking a pathway. Put more lighting in dark spots and have a flashlight handy. Get rid of the clutter! 
 
5. You can keep your independence, but still get help when you need it, either from handy tools like reach sticks or by asking a friend or family member to do the little chores that call for a step stool. 
 
And if you do take a tumble, tell your doctor. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) says that falling once increases your chances of falling again, but many people never report this to a health care professional.
 
Prairie Homestead
yvonne@prairiehomestead.org
prairiehomestead.org
1605 W. May Street
Wichita KS 67213
(316) 263-8264