Summertime in Morris Plains is full of sunshine, blue skies, and traditions including colorful fireworks and burgers on the grill. For older adults who have chosen to retire in the area, summer feels like an especially sweet reward for enduring the cold and dreary winter days. Whether it is your first summer season in Morris Plains or your 50th, we have compiled some of our favorite summer tips for seniors.
Here’s a quick list of how to stay safe and what to include on your seasonal bucket list.
First things first, hydration is crucial for people of all ages during the hot summer months. However, seniors are especially vulnerable to serious consequences of dehydration, which makes drinking plenty of fluids even more important if you are 60 or older. Dehydration can result in complications such as urinary tract infections, confusion, and irregular heartbeat for older adults, and common prescriptions may only add to the increased risk of dehydration.
Be sure that you are drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and limit your caffeine intake to one or two cups of coffee or tea per day. Steer clear of alcohol when possible because it will only lead to dehydration. Instead, get in the habit of keeping a container of water nearby while at home and while on the go. Sip frequently for better summer health.
Many older adults love feeling the warm sunshine on their skin, and catching those rays facilitates the body’s natural production of vitamin D. However, much like everything, you can always have too much of a good thing. Ensure that your skin doesn’t burn and reduce your chances of skin cancer by fostering healthy sunshine habits.
Put on sunscreen before heading out for the day and reapply as often as is necessary. You can also block harmful rays by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and seeking out shady spots whenever possible. If you do feel like you have gotten too much sunshine, head back indoors and apply cool compresses to your skin. Finally, review your medication list with your pharmacist or physician; some common prescriptions can cause sun sensitivity.
You can skip the humidity and stifling heat by choosing to head outdoors in the morning and evening hours, when possible. Seniors are often at higher risk of complications that can arise from heatstroke, and so finding ways to stay as cool as you can is imperative. Choose to enjoy your morning coffee on your shady porch before 10 a.m. and tend your garden after 6 p.m. to avoid the hottest times of the day.
Now is also a good time to ensure that your indoor temperature is nice and cool. Make sure your air conditioning works and stay safe and healthy by keeping your home cool and comfortable for as much of the day as you can.
Though the summer of 2020 is not quite normal thanks to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, you can still find ways to honor your favorite summertime traditions. Enjoy outdoor activities safely when possible, perhaps even picking up new hobbies like hiking, reading on the beach, or even bird-watching at a local nature preserve. You can also try out some of your favorite summer recipes, complete with fresh produce from the farmers market.
If you are feeling lonely, you can connect with friends and family via backyard visits or socially distant driveway gatherings. If you are still feeling isolated, consider senior living as a safe option for finding friends, personalized assistance, and peace of mind. We’d love to tell you more about our services and events right here at Arbor Terrace Morris Plains; call us today to learn more.
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