The Quiet of Late Summer: Reconnecting Through Presence

Copyright- © Etienne Girardet, BAR PACIFICO_images

August arrives quietly. The fireworks of July fade, family vacations wind down, and the first signs of fall begin to appear in shorter evenings, back-to-school ads, and the feeling of change on the horizon.

For many of the individuals we care for, this time of year can cause a subtle sense of disconnection. Visitors may come less often. Outdoor activities slow down. And for homebound clients, the slower pace of August can feel more isolating than relaxing.

At Peace Residential Care, we often say that the best care isn’t always loud or flashy; it’s consistent, attentive, and always there. That truth becomes even more important during times like these, when routines change, and silence lasts a little longer between conversations.

This month, we’re encouraging our caregivers, families, and partners to lean into intentional presence.

• Ask one more question. Beyond “How are you feeling today?”, try asking “What’s something that made you smile this week?”

• Stay a little longer. Even just two extra minutes at the end of a visit can make someone feel valued and remembered.

• Embrace silence. Sometimes, sitting in silence with someone is just as powerful as talking. It communicates, I’m here, and I’m not in a rush. 

For caregivers, August is also a time to reflect. The emotional weight of caregiving can gradually accumulate. Are you checking in with yourself as often as you do with your clients? Are you staying connected to your team, your purpose, your support system? 

Let’s make August a month of quiet connection, focusing on noticing what’s unsaid and being present in the pauses. Because in those moments, true healing and genuine peace begin.

A Note from PRC:
 We know that caring for others can be both uplifting and exhausting. Through our work, we’ve learned that every act of care counts. We hope these tips help you find strength, balance, and even a bit of peace in your caregiving journey.