KEEPINGS SENIORS SAFE IN SUMMERS

Summers can be an enjoyable weather for seniors where they can let their guards down and indulge in outdoor activities that can be relaxing for them. It is the best weather to enjoy a day at the beach or a picnic at the park with friends. While getting some essential vitamin D from the sun is important, with seniors there are always some risks involved. Keeping in mind their independence and their safety, here are some tips to keep in check before they leave home!

• Skin Care – Sun is without doubt the best natural source of vitamin D, but exposure to sun can take a toll on their skin. With age, their skin has become thin and delicate and sunburn is a cause of concern. When going outdoors, they should always use a sunscreen having at least 30 SPF or higher to prevent sunburns and heat marks.
• Comfortable Clothing – Summers mean wearing as less clothes as possible and yet keeping safe from suntans and sunburns, but feeling at ease and comfortable. Light pastel coloured and loosely fitted clothes are the go-to attire for the summers.

• Lots of Fluids – Sweating in the summer can cause the body to dehydrate quickly and can be dangerous for our seniors. Adding water, lemonade, and other fluids such as fresh juice, coconut water, energy drinks, electrolyte water, etc which have less added sugar can help replenish the body’s water level faster and keep them active.
• Keep Cool – On extremely hot days and even during the not-so-hot days, seniors should stay indoors especially during the peak afternoon hours and be comfortable in an air-conditioned environment.
• Signs to look out for – Our elders are at an added-risk for heat stroke and dehydration. With age, their body also has decreased capacity to tolerate heat and regulate body temperature, making it easier for them to have heat stroke or become dehydrated.

Some signs that you can look out for are:

• decreased appetite
• dry mouth
• excessive sweating
• nausea
• vomiting
• dizziness
• fainting episode