Summer in the Twin Cities: Tips to Keep Older Adults Safe and Active

Ah, summer in Minnesota, that magical stretch of time when sprinklers sparkle in backyards, kids dash across slip-and-slides, neighbors gather for potluck hotdish, and parks come alive with the smell of fresh-cut grass and the hum of lawn mowers. 

For Minnesotans, summer is more than just a season; it’s a reunion. After months of bone-chilling cold and hurried, bundled-up greetings, we finally get to slow down, reconnect, and reclaim our place in the community. 

But here’s the truth: If older Minnesotans aren’t included, we aren’t keeping them safe. 

Because isolation is a safety issue. 

And at Safeway, we believe that reliable home care in the Twin Cities means more than medication reminders and personal care; it means supporting older adults in holding onto the things that make life complete. 

Whether that’s hosting a backyard BBQ with friends, enjoying fireworks on the 4th, or catching a Twins game on the patio, Safeway’s Signature Care is designed to help you keep showing up for the things, and people, you love. 

Twin Cities Summer Events Older Adults Can Enjoy 

Reliable home care means more than managing health; it means enabling connection and joy. Here are some great ways older adults in the Twin Cities can take part in the season: 

• Minnesota Twins Baseball Games – Whether at Target Field or watching from the porch, baseball is a summer staple. We can help set up a watch party or arrange a safe outing. 

• Minnesota United Matches – Love the energy of the crowd? Allianz Field has accessible seating and excitement to spare. 

• Movies in the Park – Free outdoor movie nights pop up all over Minneapolis and St. Paul. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and let us handle the logistics. 

• Neighborhood Gatherings – From block parties to National Night Out, summer brings plenty of easy, local ways to socialize. 

• Walks at the Arboretum or Como Zoo – A slow, scenic walk can lift spirits, support health, and create shared memories. 

Whether it’s a planned outing or a spontaneous gathering, Safeway’s Signature care is here to help make it happen, safely and stress-free. 

Summer Safety Tips for Older Adults in Minnesota 

While staying active is key, safety is at the heart of Safeway’s home care approach. Here’s how we help older adults stay protected while enjoying the season: 

Sunscreen & Sun Protection 

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (applied 15–30 minutes before going out, then every 2 hours) 

• Use mineral sunscreen for sensitive skin 

• Don’t forget sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat 

• Check expiration dates—expired sunscreen can lose effectiveness 

Hydration 

Older adults often feel less thirsty, but their bodies still need regular hydration. 

• Safeway caregivers ensure water is always accessible and remind clients to sip throughout the day 

• We also include water-rich fruits and drinks during summer outings 

Air Quality & Heat Alerts 

• We monitor daily weather and MPCA air quality alerts for all our clients 

• On extreme days, we adjust plans accordingly; indoors, shaded areas, or early/late outings 

Footwear & Fall Prevention 

• No flip-flops, only secure, supportive shoes 

• We help navigate parks, sidewalks, and summer setups safely 

• Our caregivers are trained to recognize fall risks and act preventatively 

Dress Smart: Layer Up for Comfort 

Even on hot days, older adults often feel cold, leading to overdressing. 

• Our team helps choose light, breathable fabrics and dress in layers 

• We schedule regular cool-off breaks, indoors or in the shade 

• And if signs of overheating appear, we step in immediately 

Why Inclusion Is a Vital Part of Reliable Home Care 

At Safeway, reliable home care in the Twin Cities means helping people live fully, not just safely. 

We don’t just show up to assist with tasks; we’re here to support our clients in participating in life. 

Because for many older adults, meaningful living means staying part of traditions, summer rhythms, and neighborhood joy. 

If lighting sparklers with the grandkids, sharing a dish at the neighborhood potluck, or visiting a favorite park sounds like “you”, we can help make that happen. 

 We’re not just your support system. We’re your yes team.