In just under a month’s time, the summer season will officially get underway! This is an exciting time for most Canadians. Warm days and sunny skies mean a lot of outdoor activities that you just can’t enjoy during the far-too-long cold months of the year. Older adults and their caregivers like the summertime too. However, the notoriously hot season can present a number of issues.
What can seniors do to prepare for their biggest warm-weather challenges?
Stay hydrated.
It should come as no surprise that we’re going to start off this list of tips with a loud and emphatic “drink water!” This is because seniors are more susceptible to heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. As we age, our bodies face tougher times regulating temperature. Not to mention, medications can interfere with hydration and sweating. It’s vital for us all to consumer water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
“As seniors age, the internal systems that let them register thirst don’t work as well as they used to,” affirms Winnipeg’s Right At Home, “This means they may not notice when their bodies are telling them it’s time to take a drink. As a result, seniors often become rapidly dehydrated and suffer from electrolyte imbalances.” Their website also advises that dry skin, lips, mouth and throat are symptoms of dehydration. Dark urine, dizziness, fatigue, headaches and confusion are also signs to watch out for.
Apply sunscreen.
While this should be a no-brainer, far too many of us forget to apply sunscreen. This is important all year round. However, when we expose more of our skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays, sunscreen should be deemed mandatory. Older adults need to remember that their skin is thinner and more sensitive to UV rays. Therefore, sunburns and the risk of skin cancer are increased. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it every two hours when outdoors.
“One of the most critical reasons for sun protection is to reduce the risk of skin cancer,” informs Toronto’s Lift Clinic, “UV rays from the sun can damage the DNA in our skin cells, potentially leading to mutations and cancer. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, consistent use of sunscreen can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.”
Beware the air.
Do you suffer from asthma and/or allergies? If so, you’re well aware that the approaching summer can present some serious respiratory issues. Pollen counts can soar in summer. As well, smog or wildfire smoke can irritate respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. It’s important to stay on top of air quality each day. Use Environment Canada’s air quality index before going out. Also, ensure that your prescriptions are filled and emergency inhalers are accessible.
“When temperatures soar and you find yourself experiencing asthma symptoms, you want to have your reliever medication on hand,” stresses Asthma Canada, “No matter the weather, keep your asthma reliever with you. You never know when asthma symptoms may strike, especially in extreme heat.”
Utilize mobility solutions.
During the summer, when we venture outdoors more often, uneven sidewalks, wet pool areas and even crowded festivals can lead to trips and falls. Are you equipped with the appropriate mobility solution to ensure your safety? A mobility scooter can open up more opportunities for you to leave home safely and independently. Your friends at LifeCare Mobility Solutions have them available in different sizes to suit your specific needs!
To learn all about our mobility scooters, 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!
