Basking under the sun is always a fun time, especially for seniors. During summer, they would have more time to explore the outdoors without worrying about making it home before it rains. However, although the sun is at its best during the season, it can warn those with health conditions to stay home instead.
People, especially adults, with various health concerns may need to lie low during summer. Extreme heat from the sun may trigger their existing conditions and cause them to exceed their body’s limits.
1. Diabetes
The heat is at its peak during summer, and diabetic seniors are more at risk from heat exhaustion. Basking under the sun during the warmest of days can raise blood sugar levels. People with higher sugar levels tend to urinate more during the day, making it harder to replace the fluids lost from sweating in higher temperatures.
To mitigate the further loss of fluids in the body, aim to drink more sugar-free beverages and avoid the highest temperatures during the day. If possible, regularly check your blood sugar to ensure that they’re at the right level before going out in the sun.
2. Skin Cancer
A simple trip to the beach could potentially be dangerous as the cumulative effect of sun damage increases as people age. However, those previously diagnosed and treated for skin cancer are at an increased risk of recurrence during the summer. Skin cancer can return, especially if the patients fail to use sunblock or physical barriers while out in the sun.
The best way to avoid skin cancer is to avoid overexposure. Seek shade around the peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM to avoid direct sun damage. As much as possible, cover up when you’re going out—even while you’re at the beach.
3. Heart Diseases
People who struggle with any type of heart disease may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness while being out in the sun. Doing the same activities in the summer heat may come as a struggle due to extreme heat.
It’s essential for seniors to be mindful of their limits every time they step out of their house during summer. Try to follow your doctor’s orders and reduce strenuous activities to what your physician has determined to be safe.
4. Dementia
Adults experiencing memory issues aren’t prohibited from enjoying the sun. However, they should be extra careful about losing track of time, forgetting to drink water, or not being aware of the sun’s intensity during its peak hours. People struggling with memory loss shouldn’t be left alone, especially while being out in the sun. It helps to have a family member guide them throughout the day if they insist on going out.
5. Osteopenia or Osteoporosis
People associated with bone density conditions will always be at risk of severe injuries from falls, stumbles, and trips. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to their needs for the times they are outdoors. If they needed to hydrate, make sure that they are in a place where there is a shade to protect them from the sun.
Also, try to find a location with lesser people to ensure that no one can bump into them while they’re fulfilling their needs. If they experience any pain anywhere in their body, make sure to call emergency services if needed. Always be prepared for a possible scenario of losing consciousness or falling over.
Conclusion
All the health conditions mentioned above require close monitoring and attention all year round. However, the summer season adds challenges, such as heat and extreme humidity. Around the season, it’s easier for mild cases to turn into life-threatening hazards. Keeping a closer look at family members with existing health conditions makes it easier to mitigate the risks of them experiencing life-threatening situations.
Bridge Home Health & Hospice aims to provide the highest quality home-based patient care for our clients. As we fulfill our excellence in serving the community, we hope to deliver the best customer experience possible while they’re with us. Visit our website to know more about our services and how to sign up for them.
