How Seniors Can Have a Healthy Summer

The summer season offers the perfect opportunity to get out and live life to the fullest. Whether you’re looking for exciting summer activities like swimming and tennis or you prefer relaxing walks along the beach, an active lifestyle is the key to aging well in your retirement years. While getting out is great for your health, you’ll want to make sure you’re also staying safe under the summer sun. Here are some common conditions to be aware of as well as summer safety tips to keep you healthy this season.

Common Summer Health Risks for Seniors

If you’re enjoying staying busy this summer, it can be easy to overlook early symptoms of common health risks. By knowing what to look for, you’ll be able to make sure the summer sun doesn’t slow down your active retirement lifestyle. You can do your part to ensure others stay safe, as well. Keep an eye on friends and family to spot the symptoms of these common conditions before they progress into something worse.

Signs of Dehydration

Between 50 and 70 percent of the human body is made up of water, which is why the effects of even mild dehydration can be so pronounced. Fatigue is one of the first signs, and if not addressed promptly, symptoms can progress to headaches, dizziness, confusion and even heat exhaustion. Health Tip: Drink plenty of water. Various recommendations exist for how much water is necessary, but err on the higher side if you’re going to be outdoors or engaged in vigorous activities.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature. Those suffering from heat exhaustion may stop sweating, feel cold and clammy, and may experience nausea and vomiting. Additionally, body temperature is often elevated, and fainting may occur. Left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a potentially life-threatening situation. Health Tip: Move to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned area immediately. Drink plenty of fluids to replenish the body. Consult your physician if you have any underlying medical conditions, or call 911 if symptoms don’t improve rapidly.

Sun Damage

While not as immediately dangerous as dehydration or heat sickness, sun damage may be an even greater danger to most adults. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, as many as one in five Americans may develop skin cancer at some point during their lifetimes. Popular summer activities like swimming, golf and tennis can increase sun exposure and the chances of sun damage. Health Tip: Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when spending extended periods of time outside, even on cloudy days. Be sure to cover all areas of skin exposed to the sun, including easy-to-miss spots like the tips of ears and the back of the neck. You will also want to review any medications you may be taking, as many commonly prescribed drugs increase sensitivity to the sun. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the sun this summer.

Explore Wellness Options at Abbey Delray

Here at Abbey Delray in Delray Beach, Florida, we know all about the risks and rewards of the sweltering Florida summers. That’s why we offer residents a sophisticated choice of amenities and services to keep them safely active and engaged in this vibrant community. Residents can also rest assured that our professional staff is just a ring away, should the need arise. We also provide on-site access to a variety of health services. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see what living here is really like. We would be delighted to answer any questions you may have about our wellness programs, health services or our newly renovated living areas.