Summer is a great time for seniors to be active outdoors. The beautiful weather and endless activities create great opportunities for staying fit. Take our tips on staying healthy and active this summer for the best time possible.
How to Get Outside and Have Fun
There are healthful tips to survive the summer heat and take advantage of glorious sunshine. Staying hydrated while being active is one of the most important factors of summertime. Seniors are sensitive to the heat, so taking extra precaution is always better. Don’t let this stop you from enjoying a great exercise routine to stay fit.
1. Try A New Summer Workout
By keeping in shape all year round you can reduce the risk of falls and injuries. It can be as little as 30 minutes a day of keeping your body moving to stay fit. Summer is a time to try new types of exercises, such as low impact aerobic exercises. The water helps to stabilize the body and strengthen the muscles. It’s a great option for those with osteoporosis because it reduces your risk of a bone fracture.
Taking part in new exercises is a great way to meet new friends. If you’re someone who enjoys walking trying doing it in a place with air conditioning like an indoor track or mall.
- Try out water aerobics
- Walk in an air conditioned area
2. Summer Hydration is Key
Seniors are susceptible to the summer heat, so staying hydrated is essential. Dehydration can lead to heat stroke, which can be life threatening if it’s not treated. As people age it can become more difficult for their bodies to regulate their internal temperature. Senior’s may not feel thirsty, but it’s important to keep track of how much water they are drinking. Also, certain medications can lead to further effects of dehydration.
All of these things leads to the importance of staying cool and hydrated. They should discuss with a doctor how much fluids they should be drinking a day. In the hot months seniors should have access to an AC system for efficient cooling down. Pay attention to the signs of heat stroke, such as blurry vision and dizziness. If this should happen, go to a place with AC, drink plenty of water, and seek medical attention.
- Avoid dehydration by keeping track of how much water you drink
- Watch out for signs of heat stroke
3. Take Advantage of the Vitamin D
For a sufficient amount of vitamin D, it’s healthy to spend 30 minutes a day outside. This super vitamin helps in keeping your bones strong. Have fun outside walking your dog, having a picnic, or playing with your grandchildren at a park. While spending time out and about make sure to protect your skin with sunscreen.
Seniors are more vulnerable to the sun’s rays because of their thinning skin. Other forms of protection are wearing cotton shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses.
- Spend 30 minutes outside a day
- Protect your skin with sunscreen
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.
