3 Essential Summer Safety Tips for Older Adults

The best part about summertime is being able to get outside and enjoy the warm, sunny weather. With climbing temperatures and the bright sunshine, simply sitting out on the porch in the bright sunshine can do wonders for both our physical and mental health.

Even though you might have the urge to stay outside all day, it might not always be the best idea. You have to make sure that you're taking the right precautions if you're going to be spending an extended amount of time outside in the sunshine, or else it could have negative effects on your health and wellness.

If you're wanting to have a little extra fun in the sun this summer, our senior independent living in Michigan has some safety tips that you should follow:

1. Stay hydrated.

Drinking enough water and staying hydrated is the most important step that you can take to prevent a summertime heat-related illness. For seniors (and most adults), it's recommended that you drink at least six to eight cups of water a day, and that can be difficult to maintain. Seniors, especially, have a difficult time with this as it's harder for their bodies to tell that they're thirsty!

If you're worried about staying hydrated, especially while being active, try to time it out. Haven't had any water in a couple of hours? It might be time to go get a drink! Or, if water isn't your favorite thing, try staying hydrated with other beverages, like unsweetened tea. It'll make all the difference!

2. Use proper sun protection.

If you're prone to burning, you'll definitely want to make sure that you're wearing your sunscreen if you spend any time in the sun, but even if you aren't, sun protection is monumentally important. Skin cancer can occur at any age, so it's imperative to make sure that you're careful about having it happen to you! Even if you don't like the feeling of sunscreen on your skin (I know I don't!), grab a hat or wear a light long-sleeved shirt to help keep the direct rays off of your skin.

3. Be cognizant of warning signs of problems.

Be smart about your time outside in the sun. If there's something that just feels off... then trust your gut, because it probably is. Some things you should look out for are: if you're starting to feel dizzy or nauseous, if you're starting to sweat excessively, or if you're starting to feel fatigued, then it might be a sign of a heat-related illness. If you're able to get inside, then return to the shade in the A/C, or if you aren't, contact a doctor immediately.

Senior Independent Living in Michigan

Here at our senior independent living in Michigan, we want to make sure that you're getting all of the time in the sun that you desire without any of the negative side effects that may come from a lack of access to preparation.

Get a little extra sun in some of our outdoor seating; that way, you're able to stay hydrated in the sunshine and get some great food! Or, if you're not feeling too hungry, catch a little bit of sun on one of our covered porches or patios, letting you feel the warmth without sitting directly in the sunlight.

If you're interested in making our sunny oasis your home, contact us for more information today!