Silver Maples News & Blog

The Top 5 Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to get outside to enjoy some fun in the sun! The longer days and bright sunshine do wonders to boost your mood as you gather with friends and family for outdoor activities like cookouts and picnics. However, before you rush out into the heat and humidity this summer, it’s important to remember that seniors are more at risk for certain health risks over these warmer months. You’ll want to make sure your health and safety are top priority this time of year to avoid heat-related issues like dehydration, heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Enjoy Optimal Wellness this Summer with These Health and Safety Tips

Extreme summer heat is actually to blame for thousands of illnesses, and even some deaths, throughout the country. Too much heat is dangerous to those of all ages, but seniors can have a particularly difficult time with overheating. This is because your body’s ability to regulate temperature through your sweat glands and blood circulation tends to decrease as you age. Plus, seniors tend to deal with age-related health issues like heart disease, experience medication side effects or reduced feelings of thirst, which increase the risk for dehydration.

Stay cool and safe with these summer tips for seniors:

  • Hydrate often. Being outside in the heat causes your body’s temperature to naturally rise. Even if you aren’t feeling particularly thirsty, it’s vital that you’re drinking plenty of liquids throughout the day. Keep a water bottle handy at all times, especially when engaging in any sort of physical activity, and remember to limit caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. These act as diuretics and actually cause you to lose fluids.
  • Wear loose, light clothing. Leave the wool sweaters and dark jeans in your closet throughout the summer months! Instead, switch your wardrobe to natural, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to stay cooler and more comfortable.
  • Stay indoors during peak hours. The temperatures and UV rays are the most dangerous between 10am and 3pm, so try to stay out of direct sunlight during those times. If you like to exercise or do other activities outside, schedule them earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooled off a bit.
  • Seek air-conditioned spaces. During those peak hours, stay inside in the air conditioning when at all possible. If A/C isn’t an option for you, cover windows in direct sunlight during the daytime to keep the house cooler and open them at night to let in some fresh air. Or, visit places like shopping malls, libraries or coffeeshops during the day to get some relief.
  • Pay attention to the weather forecast. Make indoor plans on the days the local weather forecast predicts hot and steamy weather. You can consider visiting a senior center or explore local attractions like museums to keep you cool in air-conditioned places.
  • Cool down by taking frequent breaks. Your body needs extra time to recover from strenuous activities or exercise during the hot months, so take frequent breaks to cool down. Go inside for a while, take a cool shower or even simply apply a cold washcloth to your face and neck to get a little extra relief.

Staying Healthy and Active at Silver Maples of Chelsea

Residents enjoy a healthy lifestyle at Silver Maples Retirement Neighborhood, with access to all the wonderful attractions in Chelsea and nearby Ann Arbor. It’s our goal to make life as enriching as possible while keeping your health and safety top of mind. You’ll choose from a variety of activities, events and outings daily, with access to a host of services and amenities for a maintenance-free lifestyle.

If you’re interested in learning more about our vibrant senior living community near Ann Arbor, we invite you to come see Silver Maples for yourself and check out the various senior living options we offer. If you’re still researching your options and aren’t quite ready to visit, we encourage you to get to know us from afar by viewing our videos and reading some of the personal stories and testimonials shared by residents, their families and our staff. Or, feel free to connect with us through social media to get a peek at daily life at Silver Maples. You can even request more information to receive our brochure packet. We’re eager to discuss options when you’re ready, so contact us when you’re ready to chat and learn more.

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