Getting fresh air and a healthy dose of sunshine is good for an active lifestyle and overall wellness. However, the summer weather comes with some risks for seniors, even in mild climates. Understanding how to protect yourself throughout summer is essential to staying safe and healthy.
At Buckner Retirement Services, we have developed several health tips for seniors to help them make the most of their summer while staying protected. We want our residents to enjoy all summertime’s fun and excitement while keeping these safety tips in mind. To learn more about summer activities and lifestyle in senior living, call Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182.
10 Summer Safety Tips
1. Stay Hydrated
One of the top 10 summer safety tips each year is to stay hydrated. The hot summer weather can quickly dehydrate seniors, leading to medical problems and even hospitalization. Make it a point to drink plenty of water and eat foods with water in them.
2. Stay Out of Extreme Heat
When it comes to summer safety tips for seniors, staying out of extreme heat is one of the most critical. When the heat index is extraordinarily high, it’s best to stay indoors in the air conditioning or at least in the shade.
3. Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast
With busy schedules and many activities, it can be easy to forget to simply check the weather. Seniors must know what to expect each day regarding sun exposure and heat levels to dress and plan appropriately.
4. Protect Your Skin
Year-round, one of the top health tips for seniors is skin protection. Failure to wear sunscreen and protective clothing puts seniors at risk of harmful sun exposure, leading to skin damage or even skin cancer over time.
5. Protect Your Eyes
Some seniors are so focused on sunscreen and shade that they forget to protect their eyes. Eyes are sensitive to the sun’s rays and can be strained or even damaged without protection. Wear a hat or sunglasses when outside to protect your eyes.
6. Pay Attention to Prescription Side Effects
Most seniors are on at least one medication. However, seniors are surprised to learn that knowing prescription side effects is one of the top summer safety tips for seniors. This is particularly important in the summer because some prescriptions can have dehydrating or unpleasant consequences that can unexpectedly become present when enjoying summer activities.
7. Stay Away from Strenuous Outdoor Activities
Seniors should be careful about over-exerting themselves in the summer heat. It can be more challenging to gauge hydration and exhaustion when exercising outdoors, so seniors should keep outdoor activities light when it is hot.
8. Spend Time Outside Early or Late
Going outside during mid-day when the sun’s rays are strongest is usually not advised. It’s best to spend time outside earlier or later in the day when it isn’t as hot and when there is more shade.
9. Watch Out for Heat Stroke
When it comes to safety tips for seniors during the summer months, watching out for heat stroke is one of the most important. Heat stroke can strike unexpectedly and with little warning, and it is more common than you may think. Know the signs of heat stroke:
- Severe headache
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Lack of sweating
- Red, hot skin
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Cramps
If you notice any of these signs, seek a cooler location and medical attention immediately.
10. Change Up Your Wardrobe
Wearing long pants and sleeves or materials that are too heavy can significantly contribute to overheating. Stick to light clothing that leaves at least some of the arms, legs, and neck exposed.
Health Tips for Seniors
Staying healthy as a senior is a lifestyle. By following these health tips for seniors, you or your loved ones can ensure you enjoy your retirement years healthily, spending more time with loved ones. Summer can be an exciting time for seniors. However, it’s essential to know the dangers of increased heat, sun exposure, and dehydration. Following these tips can help you stay healthy, active, and independent during the summer and all year. The experts at Buckner Retirement Services can assist with summer safety and additional health tips to help you achieve this goal.
Learn More About Safety Tips for Seniors at Buckner Retirement Services
At Buckner Retirement Services, we are dedicated to creating a safe and comfortable environment for all residents. Our staff is passionate about providing quality care and services to meet the unique needs of seniors. That’s why we strictly follow these summer safety tips for seniors and more to ensure the community’s safety. Call us today at 214.227.7182 to learn more about the services and communities at Buckner Retirement Services.