With the month of May about to draw to a close, Canadians are eagerly anticipating the official start of the summer season. It all gets underway on the 20th of June! However, the warmth and sunshine that we’re currently experiencing in Toronto is making us all feel like the summer is already here. Summer is generally a fun time for all. However, for seniors, staying safe during the hotter months is crucial to ensure a fun and enjoyable season.
Here are four steps for securing a safe summer for seniors:
1. Sip your way to optimum health.
Although hydration is vital all year round, it’s especially important during the summer months. Naturally, the heat dehydrates us a lot quicker. Older adults, who are more susceptible to dehydration, are encouraged to drink plenty of water on a regular basis. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, you should aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. This number increases if you plan on spending time outside or engaging in physical activity.
Carry a water bottle with you and take frequent sips to maintain your hydration levels. “Drinking liquids throughout the day is especially important for older adults,” stresses Canada.ca, “Dehydration can lead to dizziness, fainting and low blood pressure which may put older adults at risk for falls. Dehydration may also make constipation worse.”
2. Slather on the sunscreen.
No matter how much you may enjoy a golden and glowing complexion, it’s imperative that you remember that the sun’s UV rays can be particularly harmful to older adults. Do your best to minimize your risk of sunburn, skin damage and even skin cancer. It’s as easy as applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Be sure to do so before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours.
Don’t forget to cover all exposed skin. We’re talking about such spots as the ears, the back of the neck and tops of your feet. “Put sunscreen on your ears, chin and neck even when you’re wearing a hat,” advises the Canadian Cancer Society, “Don’t forget your nose, any bald spots, the backs of your hands and the tops of your feet. Check to see how clothing moves when you move – and put sunscreen on the skin that gets exposed.”
3. Eat summer-friendly meals.
During the summer, you want to avoid feeling sluggish. The heat will wear you out so it’s best to eat, lighter meals on a more frequent basis. This will take it easy on your digestive system while also keeping you energized throughout the day. Naturally, you want to go the nutritious route. Go for a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables as they are both healthy and great for keeping hydrated. As well, salads, smoothies and grilled fish are great options. By avoiding rich, heavy foods, you can prevent discomfort in the heat.
“Rather than cutting out fats for those who are aging, focus on healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids,” recommends the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, “They can help lower triglycerides, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Some foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include oily or fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, nuts and seeds such as walnuts, chia seeds, and ground flaxseeds, avocados, and foods fortified with omega 3, such as eggs, yogurt and soy beverages.”
4. Install a porch lift.
If the older adult in your life has mobility issues that make it difficult to enter and exit the home, a porch lift may be in order. To learn all about the porch lifts offered by LifeCare Mobility Solutions, please don’t hesitate to call us at 416-267-9800 or email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
