The summer weather has certainly arrived here in the UK, and it naturally makes us all want to step outside and connect with the world around us.
At Springfield Healthcare, we firmly believe that the joy of summer belongs to everyone. Having limited mobility or living with complex needs should never mean you are confined to the indoors whilst the sun is out. True person-centred care means looking beyond limitations and focusing on what is possible, and ensuring every individual has equal access to summer’s simple pleasures.
With thoughtful planning and the right approach to adaptation, the outdoors can become accessible to all.
PRIORITISING ADAPTATION
When it comes to adapting summer activities, your goal shouldn’t be to force a person to fit an activity. Instead, you should prioritise altering the environment or activity to suit that individual’s specific needs.
Success will look different for everyone, and each moment is worth celebrating. For one individual, a summer highlight could be completing a mile-long trip in their wheelchair. For another, it could be sitting comfortably in the shade, feeling the texture of the grass and listening to the birds in the garden. Both are deeply meaningful and should be celebrated equally.
By focusing on sensory experiences, comfort and inclusion, we can break down the barriers that often keep people indoors.
WAYS TO ADAPT SUMMER ACTIVITIES
If you’re looking for inspiration to support a loved one or a resident this summer, here are some practical ways you can adapt summer pastimes:
Gardening for All: Gardening can be incredibly therapeutic, but traditional flowerbeds can be difficult to navigate for an individual with complex needs. Raised beds and tabletop planters allow wheelchair users or those who cannot bend down easily to get fully immersed with the plants and soil. Additionally, you should also look to choose plants with strong textures and fragrances, such as lavender and mint. Lightweight and easy-grip tools can make a world of difference for individuals with arthritis or limited grip strength.
Inclusive Games: For individuals with limited mobility, sports and games do not need to be high energy and physically demanding. Instead, games and sports can be adapted to support physical health and inclusion for all needs. For example, ball games can be modified so that they are played in an entirely seated position, reducing the need for maximum physical strength. Furthermore, those who cannot physically participate or would prefer not to, can still be involved. They could be referees, supporters or simply by be present. No matter the level of participation, inclusion is about giving the individual the choice and ensuring that they feel comfortable.
Creative Arts and Crafts: On the days when it is simply too hot to sit outside, engaging in arts and crafts can be a beautiful way to stimulate the brain. Arts and craft sessions are suitable for a range of physical and cognitive abilities. This can include painting, colouring and collage making. These sessions do so much more than just pass the time. They are incredible for stimulating cognitive function and offering a peaceful way to unwind and reflect. For those living with dementia, working with bright summer colours and natural materials can tap into sensory memories, encouraging self-expression and providing a sense of achievement. To help make these sessions inclusive for all you should encourage the use of larger handled brushes or pens and focusing on the process rather than the finished result. This allows individuals to engage through sight, sound and touch.
SUMMER AT SPRINGFIELD
At Springfield Healthcare, our care home and community care teams are dedicated to making the summer months as vibrant and inclusive as possible for our residents, clients and individuals we support. Rather than seeing barriers, we see opportunities to adapt and get creative to ensure memories can be made. Summer is a special time of year, and it should be enjoyed by everyone.
Get in touch with our team today to learn how we can support you and your loved ones this summer.
