Summer is here! You can finally take advantage of the longer days to bask in the sun and enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. What will you do first? Take a leisurely stroll? Eat ice cream? Read a book by the pool?
Whether you spend summertime at home with family and friends, are out and about on your own, or participating in events at a senior living community like Claridge Court, there are many summer activities in which you can partake. Whatever your summer plans include, however, be sure you’re participating in them safely.
Common Summer Ailments
Here are some common heat-related illnesses to look out for, and tips on how you can mitigate your risk and stay healthy this summer.
Regardless of how one celebrates summer, it’s ideal to maximize your fun while preventing exposure to ailments. The following lists common summer-related illnesses, which you can avoid with proper precaution.
Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion
Heat stroke usually affects adults 50 years and older. Seniors are more susceptible because as one ages, the body’s ability to adapt to extreme temperatures decreases. As a result, when exposed to temperatures 90 degrees and above, an older adult’s body may not be able to cool down fast enough.
Heat Stroke Symptoms Include:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Throbbing headache
- Shallow breathing
Heat stroke can also lead to heat exhaustion, another heat-related illness. If one suffers a severe heat stroke or heat exhaustion, extensive health services may be required.
Summer Allergies and Asthma
Allergies are commonly associated as the harbinger of spring, but some older adults may experience summer allergies too, and it can be severe. Pollen, dust and animal dander can exacerbate allergies.
For some sensitive individuals, allergies can trigger asthma attacks, which can be life-threatening. To avoid these issues, be sure to update allergy medication before summer begins.
How You Can Stay Healthy During Summer
Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to prevent or mitigate one’s risk of experiencing these summer ailments.
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen can protect your skin from harmful UVA, UVB rays and prevent painful sunburn. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to block these harmful rays. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside. Be sure to reapply often, especially after participating in water activities such as swimming.
Stay Hydrated
Older adults can become dehydrated more quickly because as one ages, thirst sensitivity diminishes. That means you’re less likely to feel thirsty even though your body needs water. Be sure to drink eight glasses of water or more each day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Long-term dehydration can lead to serious health issues such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones and kidney failure. Summer fruits and vegetables can also be good sources of hydration.
Review Your Medications
Some medications may make one ultrasensitive to the sun or ultraviolet rays. Review medications to ensure there aren’t any unpleasant side effects to being in the sun. If unsure, discuss your medications with your doctor or healthcare professional.
Have Fun!
As we get older, we can become more concerned about our health, but don’t let the risk of these summer ailments deter you from getting outside and having fun. Enjoy the longer days with your friends and grandchildren.
Enjoy Summer Safely At Claridge Court
Claridge Court, a prestigious senior living community in Prairie Village, Kansas offers upscale amenities and a curated lifestyle that celebrates every season, especially summer. Our community offers outdoor fitness activities, events, delicious seasonal food and more. Interested in experiencing an optimal summer? Contact us to learn more.
