Summer Safety for Older Family Members: Tips for a Healthy and Enjoyable Festive Season

Summer Safety for Older Family Members: Tips for a Healthy and Enjoyable Festive Season

27 Nov 2025

NSW Health advises simple precautions to keep older adults safe while still enjoying quality time together.

Plan Ahead for Visits
Before visiting an aged care facility, check the home’s entry requirements, which may change depending on local outbreaks. Family members showing cold or flu symptoms should delay visits. If a visit is essential, taking a rapid antigen test (RAT), wearing a mask, practising hand hygiene, and meeting outdoors where possible can reduce risk.

Stay Up to Date with Vaccinations
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe illness from respiratory infections:

  • COVID-19: Recommended every six months for those 75 and older; annually for people aged 65–74, with a six-month option.

  • Influenza: Recommended for everyone over six months, free for those 65 and older.

Vaccines are available through:

  • GPs and practice nurses – including bulk-billing options

  • Pharmacies participating in the National Immunisation Program Vaccinations in Pharmacy (NIPVIP)

  • Public Health Unit clinics – offering free vaccines and catch-up programs

Protect Against Heat and Mosquitoes
Hot weather can be dangerous for older adults, especially those with chronic conditions. Tips include:

  • Plan outings for cooler parts of the day

  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing

  • Stay hydrated

  • Spend time in shaded or air-conditioned areas

Mosquitoes are also more active during summer. Protective measures include long, light-coloured clothing and using repellents containing picaridin, DEET, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Prevent Gastroenteritis
Good hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of gastro:

  • Wash hands after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food

  • Use hand sanitiser when soap and water aren’t available

  • Avoid visits if you have had vomiting or diarrhoea in the past 48 hours

  • Prepare and store food safely; avoid high-risk foods such as raw eggs, soft cheeses, deli meats, pâté, chilled seafood, and ready-to-eat salads

Encourage Social Connection
The festive season can be isolating for some older adults. When safe, help them participate in family gatherings or community events. Small moments of connection can significantly improve mental well-being.

By planning ahead, keeping vaccinations current, practising good hygiene, and protecting against heat and mosquitoes, families can enjoy a safe, meaningful summer with older relatives.

Source: NSW Health – Summer Aged Care and Older Adult Safety Guidance

 

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