When summer hits in June, the outdoors beckons. There’s both physical and mental health benefits to spending time in the outdoors, but be prepared and take precautions to make sure you have a safe experience.
The heat and sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can quickly turn a pleasant outing to danger. That’s why you need to follow these tips when you head into the great outdoors.
We cover everything from appropriate clothing, to sunscreen, to drinking fluids such as water, and protecting your eyes. To enjoy summer fully, here are some easy tips for you.
Tip #1: Drink Fluids and Avoid Too Much Sun
Getting exercise is healthy for body and mind. But if you head outside to go for a brisk walk, or jog, or hit the pool for some laps, be sure to exercise in the relative cool of the day. That means in the early morning or evening. Try to stay in the shade as much as possible and don’t exercise too hard.
Make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids such as water so you stay hydrated. It’s a good practice to eat fresh fruits and vegetables as they have high water content.
Tip #2: Clothing Can Make All the Difference
The best clothes to wear in the summer heat and sun are loose-fitting, light-colored, and made of natural fiber such as cotton. Protect your head with a hat, preferably one with a wide brim.
A loose-fitting long-sleeve t-shirt is a good choice. Protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays by wearing quality sunglasses, which also help you avoid getting cataracts or having other eye problems.
Tip #3: Apply Sunscreen Before Heading Outside
Skin protection is vital as you age because your skin gets naturally thinner and more delicate. Applying sunscreen of at least SPF-30 or more will help protect your skin from sunburn.
Avoiding sunburns is important to keep your skin in good shape. Too much sun can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer.
Tip #4: Protect Yourself From Insect Bites
Summer is great — for insects! Bug bites are not just annoying. Some can be dangerous and lead to infections or other health problems.
So before heading outside into the woods, along wooded paths, the beach, or elsewhere, apply insect repellent. Being smart about prevention against insect bites pays dividends later.
Tip #5: Just Be Safe!
Carry your mobile phone with you in case you need to make an emergency call. Before you head out on vacation, or a day trip, or even half-day trip, let someone such as a friend or family member know where you’re going.
Don’t forget to take your medications before you head out. Pack water and avoid heat exhaustion, which includes symptoms of nausea, vomiting, or a headache.
If you experience these symptoms, stop exercising, move to a shady spot and call for help if you need it.
A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT
Senior living communities like Bellaire at Stone Port are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life.
At Bellaire at Stone Port, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!
If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a visit or download a brochure today!