The summer solstice is almost here, signaling the transition to shorter evenings in the coming months. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, this change can feel off-kilter. It can even disrupt your daily routine if you follow a tight schedule. Learn some practical tips on how to prepare for shorter evenings.
Plan Your Outdoor Activities
One of the first steps to adapting to shorter evenings is to plan your outdoor activities accordingly. Keep an eye on local sunrise and sunset times. This way, you know exactly how much daylight you have to work with each day. Use this information to adjust your daily schedule. Prioritize activities that require daylight, such as gardening, cycling, or walking the dog. As the sun sets earlier, you might also consider exploring alternative indoor activities to fill your evenings.
Make the Most of Your Evening Walks
If evening walks are a cherished part of your routine, don't let the shorter evening hours discourage you. Consider starting an hour before the sun sets. This way, you can soak in the serene beauty of twilight and still have ample time to return home safely before darkness falls. Consider walking with a buddy. Not only is it safer, but it also adds a social element to your walks, making it more enjoyable.
Adjust Your Sleep Schedule
To prepare for shorter evenings, it helps to adjust your sleep schedule gradually. It can be challenging for seniors to get enough sleep. Going to bed a little earlier each night to match the sunset times can help. This ensures you still get ample rest. To make this transition easier, create a bedtime routine to signal your body it's time to wind down. This could include activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.
Embrace the Change
Focus on embracing the beauty of shorter evenings. Cozy nights indoors can be a welcome change. They provide the perfect opportunity to catch up on your favorite books, movies, or TV shows. Explore new hobbies or activities that can fill your evening hours. Painting, knitting, or playing board games with family, and friends is worth looking into. You can also use the extra time indoors for self-care, and relaxation.
Stay Safe and Connected
Safety should always be a priority, especially during outdoor activities in the evening. Always keep a charged phone with you to stay connected to loved ones. It’s also handy in case of emergencies. Share your schedule and walking routes with a trusted friend or family member. This way, they know where you are and when to expect you home. For added peace of mind, consider investing in a personal emergency response system that can provide immediate assistance when needed.
Senior Helpers Elmwood Park Assists Seniors With Daily Activities
Planning, prioritizing, and embracing the change can help you better prepare for shorter evenings post-summer solstice. With these tips, you can seamlessly adapt to the new season and make the most out of every moment. If you're living in Chicago, Elmwood Park, Franklin Park, Harwood Heights, or Stone Park, Senior Helpers Elmwood Park is here to help support you and your loved ones. Contact us today to learn about the range of services we offer.