Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

If not followed properly, long summer days in the sun can be fatal for anyone, but older people are more vulnerable to this risk.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat-related health problems are more common in people age 65 and older. Our bodies don’t respond as well to temperature changes as we get older, and numerous medical conditions and prescription medications can make us more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

6 Summer Safety Tips for Older Adults

To ensure older persons may safely enjoy the summer, Hogan offers the following advice.

 

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before going out. Bring extra water bottles for all outings, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in the sun. Eating foods with water content such as watermelon, lettuce, peaches, tomatoes or strawberries are also another excellent source of hydration. Avoid alcoholic and carbonated drinks, which can cause dehydration.

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Take care of eyes and skin. Purchase plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect exposed skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Older people should wear hats and sunglasses to keep the sun away from the face and eyes. Choose light-colored, loose clothing to stay cool and comfortable in summer.

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Be aware of when to stay inside. Checking the weather forecast for overheating warnings can help you prepare for a day outside. Remember, the sun is at its strongest between 10am and 4pm. So limit outside activities to that time. If it’s too hot outside, stay indoors in an air-conditioned place. Air-conditioned food can be kept in such malls, theaters or libraries. To beat the heat this summer, seniors can stay at home or at nearby attractions

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Arrange for appropriate medication. Medicines can be affected by rising temperatures as some require a refrigerated environment to work properly. In addition, various treatments require that elderly people avoid sunlight. To make sure medications are working the way they should, check prescription labels and talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

Arrange for appropriate medication. Medicines can be affected by rising temperatures as some require a refrigerated environment to work properly. In addition, various treatments require that elderly people avoid sunlight. To make sure medications are working the way they should, check prescription labels and talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

Keep in touch. Frequent visits from relatives, friends or neighbors are a great way to stay connected and guarantee the safety of older adults during these hot days. Make sure a loved one, whether they enjoy gardening or taking regular walks, is informed about the elderly list so they can check-in in an emergency. Make a list of all emergency contacts, including family, doctors, caregivers, so that this information is available quickly if needed.

You may assist elders in beating the heat as a carer or loved one by:

1.visiting two or more times daily.
2.keeping an eye out for heat stroke or heat exhaustion symptoms.
3.Ensuring that they have access to cooling.
4.Assisting them in reducing their solar exposure.
5. Ensuring they consume enough water to maintain normal body temperatures and hydration.

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