Seniors, Be Safe This Summer with These 7 Tips

When 70-year-old Gunhild Swanson decided to go for a run earlier in the summer, she laced up her running shoes and headed into the mountains of northern California. But she wasn’t alone. Gunhild was among the 371 participants who showed up to take on the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run. Step by step, she made her way through every mountainous mile. She crossed the finish line after nearly 30 consecutive hours of running, and set a new world record as the older person ever to finish a 100-mile race.

Gunhild was able to go the distance because she was prepared, and she had plenty of encouragement along the way. Daytime temperatures during the race were hot, but smart planning helped her through the race. You may not be planning to go running on a hot summer day, but it is important to be safe when the temperature heats up. Here are some things you can do:

1. Drink Up
   Staying hydrated was a key to Gunhild success at Western States. And it’s just as important when you’re at home or out and about on a hot summer day. Staying hydrated helps support your muscles, brain function, digestion, and more. Aim to drink about 8 glasses of water a day. You may need more in hot weather. You’ll also want to stick to eating healthy during hot weather and enjoy easy and healthy meals for seniors by MagicKitchen.com.

2.   Ask Your Doctor
   If you’re taking medications, ask your doctor if the medications can be affected by hot weather. Some medications are less effective when exposed to higher temperatures.

3.   Stay Cool
   Gunhild and other runners stayed cool during the hottest part of the day with cold drinks, ice, and shade when available. You can keep your cool if you have air conditioning at home. And if you don’t, a trip to the mall or movie theater can get you out of the heat.

4.   Check In
   For some seniors, keeping body temperature at a comfortable 98.6 degrees gets harder in hot weather. When you know a heat wave is coming, let your family and friends know what your plans are. Will you be staying at home with the air conditioning cranked up? Or do you need a cooler place to stay? It’s important, because if your body temperature gets too high it could be life-threatening. Checking in can give you and your network of friends peace of mind.

5.   Be Sun Smart
   The summer season is a great time to get outside, go for a walk, or work in the garden. However, too much time in the sun can harm your skin and your health. Be sun smart by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher. If you plan to exercise, consider going early in the morning or in the evening instead of the middle part of the day when the sun is hottest and it’s ultraviolet rays are the most damaging. And if you’re in an area plagued by mosquitoes, use bug spray or repellant to avoid getting bit.

6. Layer Your Clothing
   Going from a hot outdoor environment to an air-conditioned restaurant or mall can be hard on the body. Dress in layers so that you can always be confortable. Wear light cotton fabrics that breathe.

7. Keep Your Kitchen Cool
   No one wants to cook when the heat is powerful, so keep a stock of MagicKitchen.com prepared meals in the freezer. Simply thaw and heat, and your nutritious and delicious meal is ready!