Summer Safety Tips for Seniors: Enjoying the Season Safely

Summer brings longer days and more ways to spend time outdoors, which has both physical and mental health benefits—not to mention soaking up the vitamin D. For seniors, the season also comes with unique challenges. Too much exposure to the sun, or not enough preparation, can pose serious health risks. Here’s how older adults can embrace summer safely and comfortably.

• Be smart when scheduling activities. One of the most effective ways seniors can enjoy summer safely is by planning their outdoor activities carefully with:
  • Morning or evening outings. Plan outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when temperatures are typically lower and UV rays are less intense.
  • Weather monitoring. Use a smartphone app or the local news to track heat indexes and air quality alerts that might affect respiratory conditions.
  • Indoor-day planning. On days that will be excessively hot, plan visits to air-conditioned places like museums, libraries, and shopping centers.
• Rely on your network. Connections with local family, friends, and neighbors can help keep older adults safe. That might include:
  • The buddy system. Arrange regular check-ins with family, friends, or neighbors during heat waves.
  • Community resources. Many communities offer cooling centers during extreme heat events. Learn their locations in advance. Consider joining a local community day center for seniors or a senior center.
  • Emergency contacts. Keep a written list of emergency contacts visible near the phone or programmed into your mobile phone.
• Adapt your living space. For homes that have limited or no air conditioning, try:
  • Cross-ventilation. Position fans strategically to create cooling cross-breezes during moderate temperature days.
  • DIY cooling techniques. Place bowls of ice in front of fans to create a cooling mist effect.
  • Temperature zones. If you have a room air conditioner but want to limit your electricity usage, designate one room as a “cooling station” with air conditioning.
• Manage medications. High temperatures and sunlight can impact the effectiveness of some medications, both where they’re stored and after you’ve taken them. Pay attention to:
  • Storage. Heat can degrade certain medications. Never leave prescriptions in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
  • Medication timing. Some medications increase the body’s sensitivity or affect its temperature regulation. Work with your health care provider to figure out the best times to take those prescriptions.
  • Travel planning. When traveling, pack medications in insulated containers and bring enough extras for unexpected delays.
• Eat well. With your doctor’s approval, consider adjusting your eating habits to match summer conditions:
  • “Eat your water.” Several fruits and veggies—including cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and berries—contain a lot of water, helping with hydration.
  • Make cooling meals. Opt for refreshing options like cold soups, salads, and chilled proteins that don’t require using the oven or stovetop.
  • Pay attention to salt. While excess sodium isn’t recommended, heavy perspiration can lead to low sodium levels. Consult your doctor about an appropriate electrolyte balance.
• Use smart outdoor gear. The right equipment makes a difference!
  • UV-blocking sunglasses. You won’t just be protecting your eyes from harmful rays but also reducing the risk of glare-related falls.
  • Cooling accessories. Invest in specialized cooling scarves, wristbands, or clothing that uses evaporative technology.
  • Appropriate footwear. Wear breathable shoes with nonslip soles to prevent heat rash and falls on hot surfaces.

Don’t Worry, Be Healthy

Summer should be a season of enjoyment, not anxiety. By being proactive, seniors can embrace the warmth and sunshine safely. Remember: Prevention is always easier than recovering from heat-related illness. Stay cool, stay connected, and make this summer both safe and memorable.

How Right at Home Can Help

Right at Home offers a wide range of in-home care services that help older adults stay safe and well at home, where they want to be. To learn more about how our caregivers can help you or a loved one, use our office locator to contact the nearest office.

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*Remember to consult health care providers about specific recommendations tailored to individual health conditions and medication regimens.