Florida summers are not easy for the uninitiated. The daily temperatures between the months of July and August can easily reach as high as the mid-90s. That doesn't take into account the effect of humidity.
Senior summer safety is important, as spending too much time outdoors can cause problems like heat stroke or dehydration. At the same time, Ormond Beach offers plenty of fun activities you don't want to miss, such as hitting the beach or visiting state parks.
Here are some sun safety facts so seniors can make the most of these summer months.
Many healthy hobbies for seniors happen outside, such as gardening, going for long walks, or metal detecting. However, seniors are also more vulnerable to the sun and heat than younger people.
Aging skin is thinner, less elastic, and has a diminished ability to produce melanin. This can increase the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and heatstroke. Additionally, chronic conditions such as heart disease and kidney issues can intensify the effects of heat.
Understanding these vulnerabilities is the first step in creating a proactive sun safety plan.
There are some precautions seniors can take to protect themselves from the sun. That way, they can still enjoy being outside without putting their bodies at too much risk.
Every senior should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going outside. A broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays, which contribute to skin cancer and premature aging.
Give at least 15 minutes for the sunscreen to settle before heading outside. Use a generous amount on all exposed areas, and reapply every two hours.
Some clothing is better for sunny weather than others. Try wearing light-colored and loose-fitted clothing made from tightly woven fabrics. Some people wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect their skin from too much sun.
Wide-brimmed hats protect the face, scalp, and neck. Sunglasses help shield your eyes and the surrounding skin.
Try to schedule outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are less intense. If you do go out during peak hours, stay under umbrellas, trees, or canopies. The shade lessens the sun's impact and often provides a much cooler area.
Review your prescriptions with your doctor or pharmacist. Medications like antibiotics, antihistamines, and even some cholesterol drugs can cause photosensitivity. This increases the risk of sunburns and rashes.
You don't need to stop taking these medications. However, you should limit your sun exposure accordingly.
One of the best ways to beat the heat is by providing your body with the hydration it needs. The human body sweats to cool itself, which means you need extra water stores or you'll overheat.
Seniors are more prone to dehydration because their bodies conserve less water. Their thirst response is also less reliable with age.
Do not wait until you're thirsty to drink something. Set reminders to drink small amounts of water throughout the day. Aim for six to eight glasses of water daily, though individual needs may vary.
Another way to take in water is through certain foods. Watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries are excellent sources of hydration. These healthy options can also provide you with the vitamins and nutrients you need.
Limit or avoid beverages that contribute to dehydration. This includes:
While these aren't always bad to drink, they aren't nearly as efficient at hydrating you as water.
Physical activity is crucial for a senior's health. The problem is that Florida's summer heat is precarious and requires caution.
If a senior is going to spend time outdoors, they should go out in the early morning or in the late evening. Parks with shaded walking paths are ideal.
During the summer, switch to lower-intensity activities. You can do yoga or tai chi in shaded parks. Water aerobics allows you to stay cool in a swimming pool.
Alternatively, you could work out in an air-conditioned fitness center.
Stay aware of your body's condition. The early signs of heat exhaustion include:
If you notice these symptoms, try to move to a cool place and hydrate as soon as possible.
There are a couple of ways for seniors to stay cool in Florida, despite the overbearing heat. It's all about planning ahead and knowing your safe spaces.
Air conditioning is vital in the Sunshine State. The key is to also use various techniques to keep your house cool on top of AC, such as insulating the home and using indoor fans.
When you're out and about, spend time in public places like libraries or malls. Portable fans and cooling towels can also help reduce your core temperature.
If you know you're going to be out for a couple of hours, bring a small bag with you. You'll want to pack:
Having these essentials on hand ensures readiness for any outdoor excursion. You can also keep some of these items in your vehicle.
Sun safety facts can help a lot when you live in a place that gets as hot as Florida during the summer. There's a lot of sunlight, but there are also a lot of opportunities to get out and have fun. As a senior, it's important to protect yourself to avoid causing harm or getting a bad sunburn.
Ormond In The Pines provides both independent and assisted living for seniors in the Ormond Beach area. Our residents enjoy amenities such as chef-prepared meals, a business center, and much more. Reach out with any questions and to set up a tour of our community.