The days are getting longer and warmer, which means summer is right around the corner. Summer presents endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and fishing to relaxing on the beach or exploring a new local attraction. With so much excitement and anticipation building, it can be easy to forget about taking preventive measures to stay safe from the heat.
However, preparing for the hotter months now can help you enjoy the warmth and sunshine of summer once it arrives. Explore these seven ways for seniors to prepare for the summer and take full advantage of the upcoming season.
Stay Hydrated
As people age, their risk of dehydration increases due to bodily changes that decrease fluid levels. If you're out walking or playing golf and start to experience fatigue, dizziness, or headaches, you may be dehydrated. Don't forget to drink water throughout the day and bring a water bottle with you when you leave the house.
You can also incorporate hydrating foods, including watermelon, cucumbers, and celery, into your daily diet to increase water consumption. Additionally, try minimizing consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages during the summer, since they can increase dehydration.
Find a Good Sunscreen
Protecting yourself in the sun is crucial during summer. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going outside and reapply after engaging in water activities. If you're worried about forgetting to purchase sunscreen or having trouble finding your preferred brand in stores, consider automating the delivery. Many stores now offer subscriptions for repeat online deliveries. This will ensure your sunscreen arrives directly at your home in regular intervals, alleviating concerns of running out.
Locate Local Swimming Pools
Swimming is a quick, easy way to cool off in the summer heat. Try finding swimming pools in your area at a local recreational center, senior center, gym, or school that opens their amenities to the public when classes aren't in session. At Brandermill Woods, our Independent Living residents have access to an indoor therapeutic swimming pool as a community amenity. This can help you escape the heat while strengthening your body through water exercises.
Know When to Stay Inside
Track local weather trends to familiarize yourself with what times of day experience the hottest temperatures. This can help you better plan your daily schedule. For example, temperatures typically peak in the late afternoon during the summer in Midlothian, Virginia, making this a good time to participate in indoor activities.
At Brandermill Woods, we offer a wide range of indoor activities, including happy hours, guest lectures, trivia, and fitness classes. These can help you stay busy during the afternoon and leave your mornings and evenings free to get outside while the weather's cooler.
Ensure There's Shade Nearby
Having access to shaded areas can help you enjoy time outside without worrying about overheating. Identify sections of your porch or patio that get shade throughout the day and arrange your outdoor furniture accordingly. This is also a good time to check your furniture for wear and tear from the winter and determine if repairs or replacements are needed.
Brandermill Woods offers various cottage floor plans with covered patios or screened-in porches for Independent Living residents. This setup enables you to host outdoor gatherings or cool down in the shade during hot, sunny afternoons.
Check Your HVAC System
Check your HVAC system to ensure it's working properly before the summer heat hits. After staying dormant all winter, your air conditioning may require some maintenance, and you don't want to wait until a hot day to discover it isn't working.
If you aren't sure how to check your HVAC system, ask a family member who knows how or consider hiring an HVAC technician. Our resident services at Brandermill Woods include home maintenance to ensure our residents have access to air conditioning all summer long.
Schedule Regular Health Check-Ups
Keep your health in optimal shape during the summer by scheduling regular check-ups before the season starts. Even if you feel fine, checking in with your primary care provider can help prevent illnesses and monitor chronic health conditions. Besides, you don't want a surprise medical condition to interfere with your summer plans.
Additionally, if you start experiencing symptoms of dehydration or overheating, consult a medical professional immediately. Brandermill Woods offers on-site Skilled Nursing Care and transportation to off-site appointments for convenience.
Stay Cool This Summer at Brandermill Woods
Brandermill Woods in Midlothian, Virginia offers ample opportunities for residents to beat the summer heat while staying entertained. Our community features a wide range of indoor amenities, including a greenhouse, an indoor swimming pool, a game room, and an arts and craft studio, to accommodate our residents' diverse interests.
Visit Brandermill Woods to see which amenity catches your eye. Schedule an in-person tour today by calling (804) 621-7328 and learn how we can help you stay cool this summer.
