{"id":1581,"date":"2022-06-12T06:41:24","date_gmt":"2022-06-12T06:41:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/99\/?p=1581"},"modified":"2025-08-25T11:30:14","modified_gmt":"2025-08-25T19:30:14","slug":"staying-active-and-safe-in-the-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/assistinghands.com\/99\/california\/yorbalinda\/blog\/staying-active-and-safe-in-the-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"Staying active and SAFE in the summer"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"Summertime is here and for most people it\u2019s a great time to be outside, and staying active and safe in the summer should be a lifestyle of health.<\/p>\n

All individuals, regardless of age, should be encouraged to reduce sedentary behavior and remain as active as possible, including enjoying the outdoors.<\/p>\n

However, the extra sunlight, high temperatures and humidity can become added health concerns \u2013 especially for at-risk groups like seniors.<\/p>\n

Challenges of Summertime for Older Adults<\/h3>\n

Aging poses some challenges related to exposure to hot weather and higher temperatures.<\/p>\n

The body\u2019s ability to regulate its own temperature changes during aging and through medical problems that may go along with getting older.<\/p>\n

This increases the likelihood that one may become dehydrated.<\/p>\n

Adding in medications meant to help reduce excessive fluid in the body can result in real problems for older people.<\/p>\n

The best defense against heat stress and related illnesses is being informed, prepared, and alert, which are best practices to staying active and safe in the summer.<\/p>\n

Here are some great tips that aging adults, as well as their caregivers, can use to make sure they have a fun, safe summer as the temperatures climb.<\/p>\n

Know the warning signs.<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Be on the look out for common signs of heat exhaustion.<\/p>\n

If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fainting.<\/p>\n

Of course, the best approach to staying active and safe in the summer is to follow precautionary measures to mitigate the effects of harsh heat rather than wait for your body to tell you.<\/p>\n

Stay hydrated.<\/strong><\/h5>\n

\"\"Dehydration is a major concern for seniors in the heat of the day.<\/p>\n

Drink more water than usual and don\u2019t wait until you feel thirsty.<\/p>\n

If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.<\/p>\n

Avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.<\/p>\n

Caffeine works as a diuretic and depletes our bodies of much needed liquid.<\/p>\n

Consider a mineralized drink which can help replace the salt and minerals you lose when sweating.<\/p>\n

If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage.<\/p>\n

Avoid direct sun exposure.<\/strong><\/h5>\n

Staying active and safe in the summer also means that when the sun is blazing hot, it\u2019s best to avoid being outdoors to prevent overheating, dehydration, and sunburn.<\/p>\n

If it\u2019s too hot for your usual walk or outdoor activity, explore indoor-based activities at your local community center.<\/p>\n

\"sunscreen\"<\/p>\n

When you do spend time in the sun, make sure you wear:<\/span><\/p>\n