Now that it’s June and summer is upon us, seniors may want to enjoy the great outdoors. While heading outside is great for physical and mental health, there are things you should consider to ensure you have a safe experience.

From dressing appropriately, to protecting your skin, to staying hydrated, it’s important to keep in mind the things you should do to enjoy your time outside.

Tip #1: Stay Out of the Sun and Stay Hydrated

During summer, enjoy the outdoors with a walk, jog, swim, or other exercise in the early morning or evening. Find shady routes or areas and don’t overdo it.

Also, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Fresh fruits and vegetable are also good to eat because of their high water content.

Tip #2: Watch What You Wear

It’s important to wear the right clothes in the summer heat and sun. Before you head outside, choose clothes that are light in color, natural fiber such as cotton, and loose-fitting. A hat with a wide brim is also good.

To protect yourself from the sun, choose a long-sleeve shirt. Wearing sunglasses is a way to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. They also protect you from cataracts and other eye problems.

Tip #3: Wear Sunscreen

As you age, it’s very important to take care of your skin. Your skin naturally gets thinner and more delicate as you age.

Apply sunscreen to your skin that will be exposed to the sun and use sun protection that is at least SPF-30 or more. Avoiding sunburn is very important to protect your skin from damage and even skin cancer.

Tip #4: Bug Bite Prevention

Before you go outside in the morning or evening, don insect repellent. This is especially important if you’re walking on wooded paths where you may come in contact with insects. Prevention ahead of time will ensure a good experience long after your time outside.

Tip #5: Be Safe

Be sure to have your mobile phone with you to contact someone if you need to. If you’re taking a day trip somewhere, be sure to let a family member or friend know of your destination.

Take your medicines before you head out. Also, be wary of signs of heat exhaustion such as 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 Regency at Augusta 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 Regency at Augusta, 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!