It is time to come out of hibernating and soak up that summer sunshine! The summer season brings all sorts of fun activities for older adults, but it’s important to continue to keep them safe, even in the warm weather months.
Sun protection: Wear sunscreen with SPF 15, or higher, and continue to reapply throughout outdoor activities. Get rid of sunscreen that appears to have deteriorated. Also, wear hats and sit in shaded areas.
Clothing: Pick out clothes that are light colored, made of natural materials, and that are loose fitting.
Time of Day: Limit your outdoor activities to morning or evening.
Look over your medications: Some medication may cause increased sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses outside.
Stay hydrated: Even if you’re not thirsty, continue to drink water. Avoid alcoholic beverages or caffeine, due to these drinks dehydrating your body. Fresh fruit and vegetables also increase hydration.
Reduce strenuous or physical activities, especially when outdoors, due to these activities increasing your body temperature.
(Doylestown Health, n.d)
Traveling: When traveling for summer trips, wash your hands often. Also, keep an eye on your credit cards, receipts, and personal information to decrease the risk of theft.
Place ice or ice packs in a cooler, when bringing food, to ensure food stays at the proper temperature. Also, when going to the grocery store, place food items in your air conditioned car, to avoid sitting in the heat too long.
Food: If you’re enjoying a good cookout with your friends and family, use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is at a safe internal temperature.
(Collins, Petermeier, 2011)
Summer should be a fun, relaxing time for you, or your loved one! But, you want the older adult in your life to enjoy activities, while maintaining safety.
Also, don’t forget to reach out to Home Therapy Solutions to find out how our team can help you, or your loved one!! 218-230-2171
Resources Utilized:
- 10 summer safety tips for seniors. Doylestown Health. (n.d.). Retrieved June 9, 2022, from https://www.doylestownhealth.org/blog/10-summer-safety-tips-for-seniors
- Collins, C., & Petermeier, H. (2011). Summer Safety For Older Adults. Extension. Retrieved June 9, 2022, from https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=3235
