The summer can pose certain safety hazards for seniors.  With rising temperatures and the increase in outdoor events and activities, there are certain steps everyone over 65 should take to stay healthy and safe during the summer months.

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1. Hydrate²

When it is hot outside, your body needs more water to help keep you cool.  Do not ignore the signs!  The Mayo Clinic recommends that men should consume 3.7 liters of water a day and women should drink 2.7 liters everyday.³  If you feel thirsty or even slightly nauseous from the heat, you may be experiencing some dehydration.  Grab a water bottle and have one with you, especially if you plan to be outdoors.  Your intake of water should increase during the summer to account for your body making sweat to keep you cool.  Work to develop a healthy habit of drinking water regularly.

2. Protect your skin²

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five seniors will develop skin cancer by age 70.⁴  During the summer, it is important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.  Make sure to use a sunscreen with strong SPF to help deter sunburns and harmful UV rays.  Wearing long sleeves or pants or grabbing a hat before heading outside can also protect your skin.  By remembering to grab sunscreen or wear protective clothing, you can help keep your skin healthy throughout the summer.

3. Stay cool²

According to the National Institute of Health, many seniors are more susceptible to heat stroke during the hot summer months.⁵  Symptoms could be swelling in the ankles and feet, dizziness, heat cramps and heat exhaustion.  To avoid negative effects of heat, stay indoors as much as possible.  If you can’t, bring along a handheld electronic fan to help keep you cool.  Avoid parking your car in direct sunlight and try to find shade wherever you can.  Wear loose, breathable clothing to help circulate air more easily.  Staying cool will help keep your body temperature regular and stave off negative heat-related symptoms.

4. Check your Medicare coverage

Make sure to check your Medicare coverage before a heat-related emergency occurs.  Many Medicare Advantage plans offer emergency coverage that could help cover costs related to a heat-related accident.  To check plans in your area, check out www.medicareadvantage.com/shop.

The summer months are hot, which can pose safety hazards for older adults.  By implementing these four tips, you can help minimize the negative effects of heat on your health.