Safe Ways For Seniors To Enjoy The Outdoors This Summer

Seniors who want to go outside in the yard, on the patio, or the porch to enjoy the summer sun and warm temperatures should take a few precautions. Summers are getting hotter, and the rays of the sun can do more damage to seniors because of their delicate skin. An elder care provider can help your mom or dad stay safe and enjoy the sun responsibly. And if your mom or dad does get too much sun, they can make sure they get any help they need.

These tips should help your mom or dad get outside and enjoy from fresh summer air and sun safely:

Check For Medication Reactions First

Some medications for common ailments can increase a senior’s sensitivity to sun and heat. Have an elder care provider check your mom or dad’s medications first to make sure it’s safe for them to spend time outdoors before they head outside.

Sip, Sip, Sip

Your senior parent should be sipping cool water regularly before, during, and after they go outside. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat, so keeping a water bottle handy is essential. An elder care provider can be very helpful encouraging your mom or dad to keep drinking water and making sure they have plenty of cool water to drink.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing helps keep the body cool. Breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses is also smart because it will help shade your mom or dad from the sun.

Use Sunscreen

Seniors need sunscreen every day, but they need to keep reapplying it when they are going outside. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin and reapply every two hours. Tell your senior parent not to forget areas like the back of the neck, ears, and tops of feet.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Your senior parent should stay indoors in the shade during these hours and plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler.

Take Breaks in the Shade

If your mom or dad spending time outside to get a little sun they should be taking regular breaks in shaded areas to avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Use Bug Repellent

The sun isn’t the only thing that seniors need to be wary of outside. Insects can be more active in the summer. Using an insect repellent can help prevent bites from mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases. Choose a repellent that contains DEET or another effective ingredient.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Hartsdale, NY, please contact the caring staff at Griswold Home Care for Scarsdale & Yonkers today. (914) 337-5028.