Summer is a favorite season for many. There’s reason to be outside in warm weather and amid all the bustling life, and when in retirement, there are hours to fill the day with all sorts of summer activities. However, seniors have to understand that particular safety concerns apply during the hot summer months. Sunburn may worry anyone, but overexposure to the sun and heat can cause severe issues.
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In any case, it’s best to be prepared for the summer temperatures and conditions. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when spending some time in the summer sun:
Always Have Water
Perhaps the No. 1 thing for seniors to remember in summer is that staying hydrated is overwhelmingly important. Older human bodies also don’t conserve water, which increases seniors’ risk of dehydration. However, such a situation can easily be warded off when seniors take the initiative to drink lots of fluids and always have a source of water on them when venturing out. A durable water bottle is a good investment, as it can be toted to and from any occasion, chilled, and filled with a lot of water.
However, as important as hydration is, don’t go overboard with it. This may be a challenge for seniors to delineate because thirst can diminish with age, so while you may not remain thirsty, your body could be. Yet too much water ingestion can have adverse effects, like electrolyte imbalances and excessive stress on the bladder and urinary tract system. It’s generally recommended that adults drink six to eight cups of water a day. If you have trouble fitting that into your daily routine, try substituting water for a soda you might have with dinner.
Take Breaks
Know your limits if you’re particularly active in summer and can’t resist biking or attending outdoor events. Overexertion can creep up on you but is effectively combated when you take frequent breaks to cool down during periods of sustained activity. This is as important advice for the biker as it is for the senior walking amid a farmer’s market or sightseeing with family on a summer vacation. Such respites are also perfect times to rehydrate and catch your breath overall. The summer sun can not only test your limits but push them. Knowing when to pause for five in the shade is crucial for seniors.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
As much as the sun is your friend during the summer, it can also be your enemy. Anyone who has ever had a painful sunburn in their life can attest to this, but for seniors, the stakes are a bit elevated. Heat-related illnesses and conditions can develop quickly. When outside, it’s best to take all the necessary steps to ensure safety. For instance, baseball caps aren’t just applicable when worn at the ballpark—though they’re a must-bring when attending a daytime game—but during any summer situation. Sunglasses couldn’t hurt either since protecting your eyes is most important.
Wearing a hat is an excellent idea to protect yourself from the sun.Sunscreen or sunblock is needed if you’re heading to the beach and plan to soak up the rays or watch that baseball game under the noon sun. Light colors aren’t just in-season fashion, too: They’re ideal for summer because they don’t absorb heat like dark colors.
Know the Signs of Heat Illnesses
Even if you take all the steps to protect yourself against heat illness, it’s still possible for symptoms to develop, so it’s best to be aware of precisely what those warning signs look like. For reference, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a compilation of heat-related illnesses to watch for, including:
- Heat stroke – Symptoms include: Body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or above, a fast and strong pulse, dizziness, confusion and loss of consciousness. What to do? Have 911 called immediately and lower body temperature with damp towels or cold presses. The CDC maintains that drinking water is unhealthy at this stage.
- Heat exhaustion – Symptoms include Heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, muscle cramps, and tiredness. What to do? Sip water, loosen clothes, and try to cool down. Call 911 if symptoms persist or you begin throwing up.
- Heat cramps – Symptoms include Heavy sweating during intense exercise and muscle pain or spasms. What to do? Take a break immediately and drink a sports drink if you can.
- Sunburn and heat rash – Symptoms include pain, redness, warm skin, or blistering. What to do? Retreat to a cool, dry place and apply ointments, creams, or other alleviating products.
Check the Forecast
Another part of being prepared for the summer weather is checking the forecast before heading out, whether you agree with your local weatherman. It helps to know if a cool morning gives way to higher temperatures in the afternoon, especially if you left the house in the A.M. and didn’t expect to return until later. The same is true for you; you don’t want to be caught without water in the heat or caught off guard by a temperature spike. The fewer the surprises, the safer off you are.
Use Air Conditioning or Fans
When the heat is on, air conditioning becomes a savior. However, many people often feel guilty about using too much energy, even if utilities like electricity are covered by their assisted living rent. Some residents may have just grown up tolerating the heat, but there’s no need to avoid the AC if you want to use it in retirement. At the very least, residents should have a couple of fans in the apartment, keeping one by their bedside. If you’re out on the town, always look for places to cool down, like malls, cafes, libraries or other public buildings. There’s no sense in pushing the limits when air conditioning can provide instant relief from the elements.
Summer is to be enjoyed, but seniors must always remember to stay safe in the sun. Heat illness can develop rapidly, and staying cool and hydrated is paramount. If you are considering the switch, talk to Edgewood today for more information about senior living.
