National Safety Month: 5 Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Each June, we celebrate National Safety Month, making it the perfect opportunity for seniors to learn and develop better safety practices. With their risk of injury being higher in the summer because of more activities, it’s crucial for older adults to play it safe. As we leave June behind this year, let’s keep safety at the forefront of our minds, so everyone can enjoy a fun, safe summer.

Embracing Summer Safely in Santa Clarita

Want to enjoy summer fun while reducing injury and accident risks? Follow these five summer safety tips for seniors.

1. Stay Fully Hydrated

Studies have found that if a person is thirsty, they’re already becoming dehydrated. Unfortunately, as we age, our sense of thirst diminishes. This can make seniors more vulnerable to dehydration.

Seniors must continuously consume liquids throughout the day. This is especially important during the hot summer months. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with common symptoms of dehydration, including:

Rapid breathing and heart rate
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Confusion and irritability
Listlessness
Dry skin
Sunken eyes

If you notice any of these signs, drink water immediately. If you’re still experiencing these symptoms after consuming fluids, seek medical attention.

2. Wear Sunscreen

Due to their thinning skin and its reduced ability to retain moisture, older adults are more susceptible to skin damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. Additionally, weakening immune systems make it more challenging for the body to repair sun damage, boosting the risk of developing skin cancer.

Seniors should always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors to stay protected. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply it generously every two hours or immediately after swimming.

Seniors can further protect their skin by wearing light, loose, long-sleeved clothing, UV-protection sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.

3. Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

Summers in Santa Clarita, CA, can get hot. This can lead to heat stroke and heat exhaustion, which are both dangerous medical issues for seniors. Older adults should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during periods of extreme heat. Try to stay indoors as much as possible on hot days. If you must go out, try to only do so in the early morning or evening hours when the sun’s rays are less intense.

It's also important to know the signs of heat-related conditions, including:

Tiredness
Flushed or red skin
Headache
Dizziness
Rapid heartbeat

If you experience any of these symptoms, consume an electrolyte drink, find a cool place to rest, and apply a cold compress.

4. Understand How Your Meds Interact

Some medications seniors take might make their bodies more sensitive to the sun. These include some antibiotics, retinoids, antifungals, diuretics, and cholesterol-lowering prescription drugs. Always consult with your doctor about any side effects your medication has.

5. Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls

Millions of seniors visit the ER every year with fall-related injuries. To stay safe, especially with the extra activities summer brings, keep pathways clear of clutter and debris that may accumulate. Install proper lighting both inside and outside your home to ensure visibility during those longer summer evenings. Wear slip-resistant shoes when gardening, walking in parks, or participating in outdoor events. Additionally, consider installing grab bars in bathrooms and railings on stairs for extra support, especially if you are often coming in from the pool or outdoor activities where surfaces may be wet.

Regular exercise can also improve balance and strength, further reducing the risk of falls. For those living in Santa Clarita, take advantage of the city's senior fitness programs and community resources to stay active and safe.

Visiting Angels Helps Seniors Stay Safe All Year Long

Visiting Angels of Santa Clarita, CA, provides in-home caregiving solutions to better protect seniors. We can help you manage your medications, clear clutter in your house, stay hydrated, and eat healthy.

Our caregivers are familiar with local resources such as the Santa Clarita Senior Center, where you can participate in a variety of activities and wellness programs. We also provide transportation to nearby parks like Central Park and Placerita Canyon, where you can enjoy safe, guided walks. Additionally, we offer assistance in planning visits to community events like the Concerts in the Park series, ensuring you can enjoy Santa Clarita's vibrant summer culture while staying safe and comfortable.

By integrating local resources and personalized care, Visiting Angels helps seniors in Santa Clarita live safely and independently. Whether you need help with daily tasks or just want to make the most of the summer months, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Stay safe, stay active, and enjoy all that Santa Clarita has to offer with the peace of mind that comes from having a trusted caregiving partner by your side.

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