As the sun heats up and everyone heads outside, seniors may be tempted to throw worry to the wind. While the dog days of summer are a wonderful excuse to push your cares away and enjoy the moment, take some time to prepare for the dangers that come with the change of seasons.

Whether you’re a caregiver of a senior or an older adult yourself, you can take steps to enjoy a fun-filled – and safe – summer, both indoors and out. These safety guidelines will set you up for a safe season:

• Stay out of the sun whenever possible. Sit in the shade, wear sunscreen, and bring a hat or an umbrella with you when you go outside. The sun’s UV rays, which are particularly strong in the middle of the day, can cause cancer and eye problems.
• Drink lots of water. Dehydration can lead to injury and heat-related illnesses, particularly in warmer months. Don’t substitute coffee, alcohol, or caffeinated soda, because all of these can actually make you more dehydrated.
• Stay cool. Overheating can exacerbate certain medical conditions or can cause potentially life-threatening reactions. Even indoors, heat can lead to problems. If it’s a hot day and you need to keep cool, plan a day trip to an air-conditioned locale like the movie theater or mall.
• Wear bug spray. Mosquito-borne illnesses can be especially dangerous for seniors and those with compromised immune systems. If you are heading out of doors, and particularly if you plan to go to the woods or a lake or river, spray on some bug spray to keep the bugs at bay.
• Prepare for emergencies. In many parts of the country, summer also means an increased risk for certain natural disasters like hurricanes and thunderstorms. Pack emergency supplies like flashlights, extra medications, and food in case your power goes out or you can’t leave your home.

The warmer months are a great time for active seniors to get out and about, and with a little care, you can avoid summertime injuries and illnesses. Summertime get-togethers are also a great time to discuss the future. If, during your family discussions, you have questions about planning for the possibility of long-term care, remember that the friendly team at Life Care Funding can address your concerns. Contact one of our long-term care experts today!