Staying Cool: Top Tips for Older Adults in Lancaster, Morecambe, and Garstang
Discover top tips for staying cool this summer in Lancaster, Morecambe, and Garstang. Find local spots to keep older adults comfortable and hydrated on warm days.
As summer temperatures rise, finding ways to stay cool becomes a priority, especially for older adults. Here’s our Home Instead local guide to staying comfortable and safe during hot days, including local spots in Lancaster, Morecambe, and Garstang and general tips for beating the heat.
1. Enjoy a Cool Treat
An enjoyable way to cool down is to indulge in some delicious ice cream! Lancaster and its surrounding areas have some fantastic options, here are a couple to get you started:
Leonardini Gelato Boutique
Address: Unit 3 Kings Arcade, Lancaster LA1 1LE, United Kingdom
Visit Leonardini Gelato Boutique for a taste of Italy right in the heart of Lancaster. With a variety of flavours made from fresh ingredients, this gelato shop is a perfect stop to cool off.
Wallings Real Dairy Ice Cream
Address: Cockerham, Lancaster LA2 0HA
For a more rural setting, head to Wallings Real Dairy Ice Cream. Open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, and with extended hours for the ice cream parlour on weekends, this local farm offers a delightful outing with a farm shop on hand too. Enjoy their rich, creamy ice cream while taking in the scenic countryside. You may even spot their ice cream vans at local events too.
2. Stay Cool Indoors
When the sun is at its peak, sometimes the best place to be is indoors. Here are a couple of indoor activities that provide both entertainment and a break from the heat.
Reel Cinema Morecambe
Treat yourself to a blockbuster movie at the Reel Cinema in Morecambe. It’s a great way to stay cool and entertained, with a variety of films to choose from. The comfortable, air-conditioned environment ensures you can relax and enjoy without worrying about the heat outside.
City Museum, Lancaster
The City Museum in Lancaster offers an impressive and free outing. Located in the heart of Lancaster, it’s an excellent place to learn about the local history while staying cool. The museum features fascinating exhibits and is a peaceful retreat from the summer sun.
3. Outdoor Activities with Shade
For those who enjoy being outdoors, finding shaded and accessible areas is key on warmer days.
Williamson Park, Lancaster
Williamson Park in Lancaster provides a beautiful setting for a shaded walk. The park boasts well-maintained paths, lovely gardens, and plenty of trees providing cool, shaded areas. It’s an ideal spot for a gentle stroll or a relaxing sit-down with a good book.
Why It’s Important to Stay Cool?
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, as we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature. By taking steps to stay cool, older adults can enjoy a safe and comfortable summer.
Tips for Staying Hydrated and Cool
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you or keep a jug filled at home, and take regular sips throughout the day to ensure you’re getting enough fluids.
- Choose Water-Rich Foods: Incorporate foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges into your diet, as their high water content helps maintain hydration levels.
- Wear Suitable Clothing: Opt for light, breathable fabrics and wear a hat when outside to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely: Avoid being outside during the peak heat of the day, typically from 11 AM to 3 PM. If you need to go out, try to do so in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Cool Your Living Space: Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day to prevent your home from heating up. Utilise fans or air conditioning if available to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Whether staying home, enjoying a refreshing ice cream, taking a shaded walk in Williamson Park, or visiting the local cinema or museum, there are plenty of options to beat the heat.
Remember to stay hydrated, dress appropriately, and avoid the sun during peak hours to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer. Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy all that our beautiful region has to offer this summer!
For more information on our home care services to support you this summer, contact Home Instead Lancaster on 01524 951574