The summer season can present some challenges when it comes to your health. Aside from the dangers of the heat and being out directly in the sun, people typically have more access to unhealthy foods at barbecue cookouts and other events. While you may be staying as healthy as possible with independent living at your home, maintaining balance in other situations is important. Here are three simple ways to ensure you remain healthy throughout the summer.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is the number one thing to focus on all summer. Seniors are especially prone to heat exhaustion for various reasons, and being hydrated can help prevent those issues. Consuming water throughout the day, especially when spending time outdoors, is much better than consuming caffeinated drinks, sugary drinks or alcohol, which can dehydrate you. If drinking water gets to be boring, add some fresh flavors like lime, lemon, berries or other healthy options.
Protect Yourself From The Sun
Sun protection is the next thing to focus on this summer. A senior’s skin may have existing sun damage or be more vulnerable to getting damaged by the sun. Wearing sunscreen of at least 30 SPF is ideal, and also consider wearing long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats to protect your skin. Going outdoors for even a short amount of time can be dangerous without sun protection, so make a conscious effort to put some on before walking down your wheelchair ramp and starting your outdoor adventure.
Exercise As Much As Possible
The summer heat can limit safe times to exercise. For seniors practicing independent living, this usually means doing morning exercises outdoors is ideal. Even if it’s too hot outside to go on a long walk, it’s still beneficial if all you can do is walk up and down your wheelchair ramp. That way, if you get tired or fatigued easily, you don’t have far to walk to go inside and cool down. In this regard, having a stair lift in your home is also great for those times when you’re too tired to walk up and down the stairs. Your exercise sessions don’t have to be intense and can be done at your pace. The important thing is to keep moving as much as possible throughout the day to keep your blood flowing and your muscles strong.
Next Day Access is here to keep you safe and healthy this summer. Diet and exercise are critical, but physical safety can’t be overlooked either. A wheelchair ramp makes going in and out of your house a breeze, and a stair lift increases accessibility significantly. Independent living may be defined differently among seniors, but staying healthy during the summer season should be your number one focus. If there is anything we can do to help keep you safe and healthy this summer in and around your home, contact us to schedule a free home assessment.
