Summer brings longer days, sunny skies and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, travel, spend time with family and make lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring a new destination, keeping up with the grandkids, gardening, playing pickleball with friends or enjoying local community events, there are many opportunities to stay active in the summer months.
However, as we age, we can be more at risk for heat-related illnesses, even if we are healthy and active. The good news is that you can continue to enjoy all that summer has to offer if you take some simple precautions to stay safe, comfortable and healthy in the summer heat.
Why Seniors Need to Take Extra Precautions
According to The Senior Source, older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Aging, chronic health conditions and side effects from common medications can make it more difficult for even healthy seniors to regulate body temperature and to cool down by sweating. Research has also shown that many seniors have a diminished thirst sensation, so they may not be drinking as much water as they need to stay hydrated.
While these factors can make summer heat more challenging, they shouldn’t keep you indoors all summer and prevent you from enjoying your favorite activities. Understanding the risks and taking proactive measures can help you stay safe and healthy all season long.
Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses
The first step to staying safe is knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you experience any of these symptoms, move to an air-conditioned space immediately, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen:
- Uncontrollable sweating
- Heat rash on chest, neck or other body parts
- Muscle cramps or muscle weakness
- Extreme fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Dizziness and fainting
- Swelling in the hands, legs and ankles
Staying Cool at Home
Your home should be a refuge from the summer heat. Taking a few preventive measures can help maintain a cooler indoor environment while reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
The National Institute on Aging recommends:
- Keeping your air conditioning system properly maintained
- Closing blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day
- Limiting use of the oven during the day
- Using fans to improve air circulation
- Staying hydrated throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty
If your air conditioning system stops working, don’t wait for conditions to become unsafe. Arrange to stay with a family member or friend or go to a local cooling shelter until you can get it repaired. You can utilize this eldercare locator to find services in your area that can help you stay safe and cool, and you can also find programs that offer assistance with energy bills, equipment repair and weatherizing your home.
Modifying Your Exercise Routine
If you normally exercise outdoors, you may need to modify your regular routine. Walk in the early morning or evening hours when it’s cooler or walk indoors at the mall or an indoor walking track. You can also take exercise classes at your local senior center or swim at an indoor pool. By adjusting when and where you exercise, you can continue enjoying the benefits of physical activity while reducing your risks of heat-related illnesses.
Enjoying Summer Travel Safely
If you will be traveling to a warm climate for your summer vacation, taking these steps can ensure your vacation is enjoyable and safe:
- Schedule outdoor activities and sightseeing excursions in the cooler early morning hours when possible
- Take frequent breaks to rest and hydrate—don’t try to “push through” if you are feeling signs of heat exhaustion
- Wear a hat, loose, light-colored clothing and a neck fan to stay cool
- Visit museums, galleries and other indoor attractions in the heat of the day or take a lunch break in an air-conditioned restaurant
- Utilize transportation options like hop-on/hop-off busses to avoid walking long distances in the heat
- Head back to your hotel for a swim or rest break if the heat becomes overwhelming
Most importantly, listen to your body. If you feel fatigued, dizzy or overheated, slow down and seek a cooler environment. You can enjoy summer at any age if you make thoughtful adjustments and take precautions to stay safe, cool and active.
Trio Healthcare Supports Healthy Aging Through Every Season
At Trio Healthcare, the health, comfort and safety of our residents is our top priority. Our compassionate care team provides expert, personalized support and engaging recreational, social and cognitive activities for our long-term care, assisted living and memory care residents. We also provide short-term rehabilitation therapy services to help active seniors recover and get back to living the life they love with confidence. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we support healthy aging throughout the year.