Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

June marks the arrival of the summer season. It also marks the beginning of tropical weather in the Sarasota region. Heat and humidity come in full force, with average high temperatures hovering around 87.3°F. The extreme heat and humidity mean that older adults need to exercise extreme caution before heading outdoors.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults over the age of 65 are more at risk for heat-related health problems. Older adults lose the ability to regulate their body temperature as effectively as younger people due to age or chronic medical conditions. Certain prescription medications can also interfere with their ability to regulate body heat and even produce sweat. However, with a little planning, seniors can still safely enjoy the summer season. Here are our top summer safety tips for seniors.  

Apply Sunscreen 

Sunscreen isn’t just for the pool or the beach. Sunscreen is vital for seniors to apply to their skin any time they plan to head outdoors. Sun damage can happen fast, especially for seniors with fragile skin. Lather on the sunscreen 30 minutes prior to outdoor activity. This gives the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin, so that you’re fully protected. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. To make this an easier part of your everyday routine, select lotions, such as facial moisturizers, that contain SPF. These lotions are sufficient coverage for everyday activities, where you plan to spend a few minutes here or there in the sun.  

Increase Your Water Intake  

Another summer safety tip is to increase the amount of water you drink during the summer season. Older adults are prone to dehydration because their thirst sensation diminishes with advanced age. Hydration is always important. However, during the summer months, the heat and humidity can cause older adults to lose more body fluids through sweat. Stay safe this summer by staying on top of your water intake. Aim to drink six to eight glasses of water each day. Fill a water bottle each morning and carry it with you throughout the day. Take a few sips throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.  

Dress in Layers

Many older adults feel colder, even in the heat and humidity. To stay warm, they tend to wear thick cardigans or sweaters. This can be dangerous for older adults, as the thicker material traps heat and increases sweat production. It’s best for older adults to dress in layers to support the self-regulation of their body temperature in the heat and humidity. Start with a base layer t-shirt made from fabric that wicks sweat off the skin. Add a long-sleeve lightweight cardigan or shirt made from breathable fabric when you feel a chill. Don’t forget to protect your eyes and head as well. Sunglasses help reduce the cumulative damage that causes cataracts or macular degeneration. Add a wide-brimmed hat to protect your scalp, ears, and face, as well as offer shade when there it isn’t readily available, as you head outdoors.  

Enjoy the Indoors  

The final summer safety tip for seniors is to stay indoors during the peak hours of the day. The sun’s rays are most intense between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan your day around these hours to avoid heat-related health problems. Outdoor activities, such as gardening, golfing, or walking, should be enjoyed earlier in the morning or well after the peak hours of the day. When the day begins to heat up, plan to stay inside and enjoy the comfort of air conditioning. Read a book, watch television, walk around an indoor mall, or simply relax in the comfort of your own home during the peak hours of the day.  
 
If you are an older adult who needs additional resources to stay safe this summer, look no further than Visiting Angels Sarasota. Whether you need respite care, in-home care, part time or full time, care, or care at an assisted living facility, we can offer a skilled caregiver that is right for you. We approach in-home care differently than many other agencies. We will work with you and your family to find a caregiver who can provide all the services your loved one needs. The caregivers we refer are truly passionate about helping seniors and enriching their lives through daily living assistance, social activity, and overall wellness. If you would like to learn more about the home care referrals we provide, please contact our office today.