Stay Well, Stay Cool: Summer Health Tips for Seniors
Summer is a time for sunshine, fresh air, and fun activities with family and friends. Whether it's gardening in the backyard, walking in the park, or enjoying a local concert, staying active and social is key to your well-being. But as temperatures rise, older adults need to take extra care of their health.
HERE’S HOW YOU CAN STAY WELL—AND STAY COOL—ALL SUMMER LONG:
1. Keep Up with Preventive Care
Before jumping into summer activities, take time to make sure your healthcare is up to date. Staying on track with preventive care can help catch problems early, so you can keep feeling your best all season long.
Talk to your care team about how they can help you stay well by:
Tracking your vital signs from home with our Remote Patient Monitoring System
Scheduling convenient in-home, in-office, or telehealth visits
Getting easy medication delivery and refills
Accessing mobile lab work and X-rays, and support for managing chronic conditions like diabetes
2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart
Drink water throughout the day—even if you don’t feel thirsty. Don't overdue it! Sometimes, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Adults need 91–125 oz of fluids daily—more in summer heat. Stay ahead of thirst. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Load your plate with seasonal fruits, crisp vegetables, and lean proteins to keep your energy up and your immune system strong.
SUMMER TIP: IF YOU'RE THIRSTY, IT’S TOO LATE
3. Beat the Heat Safely
Older adults are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, so it's important to take extra precautions during the summer. Try to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. When you are outside, wear light-colored, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to stay cool and protect yourself from the sun. Indoors, make use of fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature and prevent overheating.
4. Move Your Body, Your Way
Physical activity helps you stay strong, steady, and independent. Choose summer-friendly activities that bring you joy—whether that’s swimming, walking with friends in the early morning, or joining a chair yoga class in the shade. The goal is to move in a way that’s both safe and enjoyable.
5. Stay Connected
Don’t forget your emotional wellness. Spend time with loved ones, join a book club, or take part in community events. Staying socially connected has big health benefits, and summer is full of opportunities to engage.
This summer, take steps to protect your health so you can make the most of every sunny moment. From routine checkups to unexpected sick visits, Your Health is here to help you stay well so you can keep doing what you love all summer long!