From hydration stations stocked with fruit-infused water to weekly barbecues on the patio and ice cream-themed get-togethers, residents at Berwick by the Sea make the most of summer while staying safe in the heat.
“Ensuring our busy residents stay safe during the summer months is a top priority for us at Berwick," says Loren Butler, Berwick by the Sea's Community Relations Manager. "While our buildings are fully air-conditioned, there are many other things we do to help residents 'keep their cool' while enjoying their favourite summer activities."
The 'always on the go' Berwick residents can utilize the Berwick 'About Town' car instead of walking, five days a week in the summer. This allows them to safely enjoy their daily outings even on the hottest days. For those who prefer to stay close to home to avoid the heat, there are plenty of on-site activities.
“Our summer calendar includes lawn games on the bowling green, barbecues on the patio, scenic tours in the air-conditioned Berwick Bus and our always popular Ice Cream Social events,” Loren adds.
Loren shares some Berwick-approved tips for a safe summer, plus a refreshing drink recipe from Executive Chef Stephanie Martinolich.
Summer safety tips
At Home:
- Keep cold packs and ice on hand in your freezer.
- Keep windows closed and covered on hot days (open them at night to help cool your home).
- Use a digital thermometer to measure indoor temperatures.
- Use a misting fan instead of a normal fan when temperatures are over 35°C.
- Keep at least one room air-conditioned as a safe 'cool down' space.
- Check your medications, as some can affect your ability to regulate body temperature and make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
When out and about:
- Plan daytime outings for early morning or evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
- Wear lightweight clothing (cottons and linens), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and broad-spectrum sunscreen (minimum SPF 30, reapply every two hours). Opt for light colours to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
- Pack a portable fan and water at all times.
Forever Young: A refreshing summer mocktail
Ingredients:
- Lime wedge
- Mint leaves
- Cranberry juice
- Ginger ale
Method:
Step 1: Rim a rocks glass with lime juice and then your favourite rimmer – our favourite is a mix of sugar and salt!
Step 2: Fill your glass with crushed ice and ginger ale.
Step 3: In a cocktail shaker, muddle four mint leaves, then pour your cranberry juice in and add a small scoop of ice.
Step 4: Replace the lid and shake until the outside of your shaker is cold to the touch.
Step 5: Pour your mocktail into your prepared glass and garnish with a mint leaf and lime wedge. Enjoy!
Find more information about Berwick Retirement Communities online at berwickretirement.com or book a tour today with Berwick by the Sea's Community Relations Manager, Loren Butler and see what your life could look like at Berwick by the Sea in Campbell River. Book online here or call Loren at 250-914-8055.