Summer brings opportunities for outdoor fun like picnics and barbeques, concerts under the stars and cooling off in the pool or at the lake or at the beach. But as the temperatures rise, it’s important to take steps to stay safe in the heat. By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself while still enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.

Heat is Especially Dangerous for Seniors

Intense heat can be dangerous for everyone, but especially for seniors. According to Dr. Roshni Kundranda, a geriatric medicine specialist with Banner Health, “With aging, our bodies produce less sweat, which is the body’s natural way of cooling down. This reduced sweat response makes it hard to regulate your body temperature in hot weather.” Chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease and dementia and certain prescription medications can also increase the risk of developing heat-related illnesses.

How to stay safe

In a recent article published by Banner Health, Dr. Kundranda offers these essential summer safety tips for seniors:

1. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during and after physical activity. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables like watermelon, grapes and cucumbers can also help you stay hydrated.

2. Wear protective clothing. Choosing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors that reflect the sunlight can keep you cool, and a wide-brimmed hat can provide added protection against the sun.

3. Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF every two hours to protect your skin, especially if you are swimming or engaging in physical activity.

4. Stay cool. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day, whether that’s at home or in other indoor spaces like shopping malls or movie theaters.

5. Stay indoors during peak hours. When possible, avoid outdoor activities and exercise during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Early morning and late evening are the best times to venture outdoors.

6. Check your medications. Some medications can cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun or increase your risk of heat-related illnesses, so read the labels carefully and take extra precautions to stay safe.

7. Stay connected. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family for help if you are not feeling well, if you need assistance with outdoor tasks, or if your air conditioning is not functioning properly.

8. Plan travel wisely. Choose travel destinations carefully, opting for cooler climates when possible or scheduling activities during cooler parts of the day. Make sure to pack plenty of water when outdoors and take frequent breaks to cool down and rest.

9. Know the signs. If you have dry mouth, dizziness, muscle pain or weakness, nausea or headaches, get to a cool area and drink plenty of water or a sports drink with electrolytes. If you still don’t feel better, seek medical attention immediately.

By following these tips, you can experience all the outdoor fun summer has to offer while staying healthy and safe this summer.

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