importance of hydration

As Arizona’s scorching sun continues blazing with no significant temperature dips on the horizon, it’s more important than ever for seniors to adopt summer superpowers to help you stay cool, boost your hydration and protect yourself from the heat.

In this blog, we’ll explore summer safety tips for seniors, including how to stay active, quench your thirst and combat the heat during the hottest days of the year. With these simple tricks and strategies, seniors can live boldly and brightly this summer.

Stay hydration aware: When it comes to health tips for seniors, staying hydrated is vital all year long, not just during these 100+ degree days. As we age, our bodies become less effective at conserving water, making older adults more susceptible to dehydration. Staying hydrated helps prevent heat-related illnesses, kidney problems and cognitive issues. It also supports heart health, physical endurance and reduces the risk of falls.

Keep cool inside: When the temperature soars, staying in cool or air-conditioned environments helps reduce sweating and fluid loss. Seniors can make the most of indoor activities like reading, doing puzzles, painting or catching up on their favorite shows. Plus, it’s the perfect time to connect with friends and family via video calls or online gaming.

Get active indoors: Being indoors doesn’t mean being idle. Seniors can stay active by doing light exercises, such as stretching or yoga, right from the comfort of their living rooms. Consider trying seated activities or resistance bands for a fun and gentle workout.

Embrace water fun: If you yearn for aquatic adventures, consider heading to a pool, lake, water park or beach. Water aerobics is a low-impact exercise that keeps you cool while you work those muscles.

Be sun protection savvy: When venturing outdoors, prioritize sun protection. Wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Remember to seek shade during peak hours when the sun is strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Recognize heat-related illnesses: Seniors should be aware of the signs of heat-related conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache and nausea. Heat stroke is more severe and can be life-threatening, with symptoms like confusion, rapid pulse, high body temperature (103 F) and unconsciousness. If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Follow safe summer practices: Summers are made for fun, but safety should always be the priority. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing and consider using a handheld fan to keep cool when outdoors. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol intake, which can contribute to dehydration. Ask for help from family, friends or neighbors with any chores or outdoor tasks that may be too demanding.

Hydration: The Ultimate Solution for Healthy Bodies and Minds

Staying adequately hydrated ranks at the top of summer safety tips for seniors. Aim to consume at least eight to 10 cups (64 to 80 ounces) of water or other hydrating liquids daily. Keep in mind, there are several different ways to stay hydrated and cool besides drinking plain water.

Summer health tips to up your hydration game and replenish fluids:

  • Infuse water with refreshing flavors like cucumber, mint or citrus fruits.
  • Blend fruits and vegetables with water, coconut water or low-fat milk.
  • Drink beverages like coconut water and herbal teas.
  • Opt for foods with high water content, such as fruits (watermelon, oranges, berries) and vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce).
  • Eat refreshing snacks like popsicles, ice cream or frozen fruits, or light meals like chilled soups or broths.
  • Add hydration gel packs containing electrolytes to help replenish fluids.

The key to staying hydrated is listening to your body and consuming fluids regularly throughout the day. (Tip: Carry a reusable water bottle and sip water throughout the day.) Drinking water is essential, but incorporating hydrating foods and beverages into your diet can further support overall hydration during the hot summer months.

Cool Campus Amenities Make Summer a Breeze

Arizona has some of the hottest weather in the country, especially during scorching summers in the valley. Beatitudes Campus makes it easy for residents to follow summer health tips and stay on top of their H2O consumption with hydration stations throughout our senior living community.  Independent living residents also beat those soaring Phoenix temps by soaking up campus amenities as refreshing as an ice-cold lemonade at one of our multiple dining venues.

Here, the heat will feel like a distant memory when you’re staying active and having fun with friends and neighbors. Embrace your cool creative side with painting, DIY projects, pottery, crafting and woodturning in our art studio and woodworking shop. Dive into the summer vibes with fellow residents in our swimming pool, or at our state-of-the-art fitness center or exercise classes. After your dip or workout, you can boost your coolness with a fresh new look at our onsite beauty and barber shop.

Residents also get a break from the heat by spending time in our well-stocked library, where they stay connected online with friends and family, expand their minds and discover new worlds through the pages of books.

Our on-campus gift shop, convenience market and thrift boutique offer an array of unique finds, essentials and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. And for spiritual moments of reflection and serenity, our Everett Luther Life Center and chapel provide a peaceful spiritual sanctuary.

At Beatitudes Campus, summer is more than just a season — it’s a bright and bold adventure filled with the freshest services and amenities. Discover other health tips for seniors and ways our residents stay vibrant and active by checking out our blog and photo and video gallery.

Featured Image: Photodjo / Shutterstock