Summer is a great time of the year. Warm, pleasant weather and long, sunny days combine to make the season a wonderful opportunity for getting outside. This is true no matter someone's age -- whether they are five or 85 years old.
But summer also poses certain health risks, primarily because of the higher temperatures. Seniors are at a greater risk. Here are the four major health concerns to be aware of.
Sunburn
Seniors are at a greater risk for sunburn since their skin may be dry, fragile, and much slower to heal itself. Older adults should be extra careful to protect their skin by covering up with clothing and a hat. Any skin left exposed should be protected with sunscreen.
Sunburns occur when the skin absorbs too much ultraviolet light from the sun. In the short term, sunburn results in irritated, painful skin. Over a longer period, sunburn contributes to skin aging and greatly raises the risk for skin cancer, which is more common in people over the age of 65.
Dehydration
The body produces sweat to cool itself down. When it's hot out, more liquid is needed to stay cool, which means the risk for dehydration rises during the summer. Matters are worse for seniors since the body's thirst signals weaken as the body ages. Seniors also become dehydrated much quicker.
Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, confusion, infrequent urination, dark-colored urine, fatigue, and severe thirst. Dehydration can be prevented simply by drinking plenty of water, especially when going outside during hot weather.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body's temperature rises to an unsafe level. Exercise, including walking and gardening, in the summer heat, is a common cause of heat exhaustion. The risk for heat exhaustion increases with age, as the body's ability to cool itself degrades.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness and feeling faintness, heavy sweating, headaches, and muscle cramps.
To stay safe from heat exhaustion, seniors should avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, and be joined by a partner if you must be outside. Staying hydrated is crucial as well since the body cools itself off via sweating. If venturing outside, wear lightweight, breathable clothing and partner with a friend.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is the more dangerous version of heat exhaustion. It can develop if the signs of heat exhaustion are not paid heed to. Heatstroke poses a serious risk to health and can cause brain damage, organ failure, and if left untreated, potentially death. Signs of heatstroke include vomiting, rapid heartbeat, confusion, delirium, seizures, rapid breathing, and dry skin. If any of these severe symptoms develop, immediate medical attention is needed.
Keeping Seniors Safe. Outside.
Venturing outside during the warmer summer months provides many physical and emotional benefits for older adults. Comfort Keepers Twin Cities helps seniors realize these benefits by ensuring consistent hydration and nutrition during each shift, establishing safe boundaries, and being with them every step of the way to watch for warning signs and be a trusted companion. If you or a senior loved one have goals of safely enjoying the outdoors throughout the summer, call our office today at (651) 796-2540 and we can help discuss an in-home care plan that is right for you.
A Comfort Keepers Caregiver can help seniors get the most out of their outdoor activities this summer while staying safe and healthy.
