Summer is the season of travel, pool time, and relaxation for many. But while others bring out their sunscreen, flip-flops, and barbecue grills, care teams turn their attention to a broad variety of healthcare issues.

This is the third article in a four-part series designed to fill the calendar with intention and drive collaboration across care teams.

From disability awareness and vision care to immunizations and fall prevention, July through September offers a full slate of opportunities, because multidisciplinary teams never take a vacation from guaranteeing residents receive the best care and outcomes.

July: Cognitive and Emotional Health

July marks 250 years of American independence alongside another milestone: 36 years of expanded freedom for the more than 70 million Americans with disabilities. Observed throughout July, Disability Pride Month celebrates disability identity and community, including the July 26 anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act signed into law in 1990. This landmark legislation cemented that disability rights are civil rights, ensuring those with disabilities have equality, accessibility and opportunity.

July is also Social Wellness Month, a reminder of how much residents rely on relationships with others. Social bonds are fundamental to overall well-being and bring joy and meaning to daily life.

On July 22, World Brain Day gives a heads up to care teams to promote better health for the most complex organ in the human body.

These three occasions offer unique opportunities for activities teams to partner with clinical staff on inclusive programming that supports both cognitive and emotional health.

Additionally, herbal–prescription interactions are more common than many realize. July is a good time to carefully review supplements residents take and assess for any adverse effects.

August: Prevention, Execution and Vision

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a reminder that vaccinations remain a powerful shield against diseases, especially among older adults. As the National Institutes of Health notes, the immune system weakens with age, making it harder for bodies to stave off infections. For residents managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, staying current with vaccinations is absolutely vital for long-term health. Communities can finalize plans for onsite vaccine clinics with pharmacy partners to assure each resident has the chance to get fully up to date on vaccinations.

National Eye Exam Month in August underscores the importance of routine vision care for seniors. Vision changes with age, and many age-related eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration, develop without early symptoms. Annual eye exams can not only detect these issues early but can also reveal other conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure and even high cholesterol. Teams should confirm residents have followed through on their vision care, especially those with chronic conditions affecting eyesight.

September: A Chance of Fall

As cooler fall weather approaches, care teams should prepare for a different kind of fall. September brings a slew of awareness reminders, including Healthy Aging Month, World Patient Safety Day, World Alzheimer’s Day and Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Each of these events points in the same direction – the risk of falling, particularly among residents with cognitive impairments. Teams should keep preventive care and check-ups front of mind, especially for the most vulnerable residents.

With winter’s chill around the corner, September is the perfect time to prepare for winter storms and the complications that can arise, such as power outages and supply disruptions. Beginning medication access planning long before the first snowflake falls gives staff and residents the peace of mind knowing the medications they need will be on hand.

By Bethany Bramwell, RPh, BCGP, VP, Marketing
Guardian Pharmacy Services