Top Tips: Outdoor Safety Tips for Seniors in Warmer Weather
Summer is officially here, with temperatures this week reaching 30 degrees! It is important to be prepared in advance for outdoor adventures, to ensure older adults are safe from the heat and the sun’s rays.
At Myley, we know that ensuring outdoor safety for older adults in the heat is vital to their well-being. As temperatures rise, seniors become more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, making it crucial to take precautions to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. By prioritising outdoor safety measures, caregivers can help older adults stay healthy and active during warmer weather conditions.
‘The summer of 2023 was the hottest on record since 1850, and this summer could be just as sweltering. That puts older adults - a group especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses - at elevated risks for a number of health conditions and outcomes. Older people are less able to regulate changes in body and environmental temperatures, and higher temperatures put them at increased risk of dehydration, heat stroke, blood pressure changes, muscle cramps, and dizziness.’ (source)
Here are some Top Tips for supporting outdoor experiences while prioritising safety:
1. Prioritise Hydration
· Fluid Intake: Encourage seniors to drink plenty of fluids - before, during, and after outdoor time. Proper hydration combats the effects of heat.
· Water Is Key: Opt for water over sugary or caffeinated drinks. A reusable water bottle is a practical companion.
2. Dressing Comfortably
· Loose-Fitting Attire: Help seniors choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid tight layers that trap heat.
· Breathable Fabrics: Natural materials like cotton allow better air circulation and regulate body temperature
3. Timing Matters
· Avoid Extreme Heat: Stay informed about heat advisory warnings from local weather services. Discourage outdoor activities during scorching afternoons.
· Embrace Mornings: Plan outdoor outings for cooler morning hours. The sun is gentler, reducing the risk of heat exhaustion.
‘I look after 2 people and they can’t always regulate their temperature – one is always hot and one is always cold. Another man I was caring for was struggling with his breathing because of the heat and humidity.’ (source: gov.uk study)
4. Seek Shaded Retreats
· Shady Spots: Limit direct sunlight exposure. Find areas with natural shade, or use umbrellas and awnings.
· Sun Protection: Ensure seniors wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to shield their face and eyes from UV rays. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply as directed.
5. Recognise Heat-Related Symptoms
· Educate Yourself: Learn about heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion Watch for signs including heavy sweating, dizziness, rapid pulse, muscle cramps, extreme thirst, headache, or nausea. Be aware of medications that may interact with heat and advise consulting healthcare providers for guidance.
· Prompt Action: If seniors experience any of these symptoms, guide them to seek shelter in an air-conditioned space and encourage hydration.
‘Some residents I work with have dementia and can’t always say if they are too hot or dehydrated, I’ve got to keep an eye on people and it’s often a process of elimination to work out what was wrong.’ (source: gov.uk study)
By following these top tips, we can help seniors embrace the beauty of being outdoors in nature, whilst safeguarding their health and well-being.