For seniors, enjoying the warm sun on a summer day doesn’t have to be a distant memory. Here are some tips for helping seniors take advantage of summer weather. 

Spending time outdoors enjoying the warm summer sun doesn’t have to be a distant memory for the elderly. With heightened awareness and preventative measures, seniors can enjoy a healthy, active summer. Here are some tips for helping seniors take advantage of summer weather.

• Soaking up the sun is a main advantage of spending time outdoors. Spending time in sunlight generates Vitamin D, which is necessary for proper brain, bone, and muscle function.
• With temperatures on the rise, it's important to make sure that the elderly stay well hydrated when outdoors. Dehydration can impact blood pressure as well as muscle function, leading to a dangerous situation for seniors.
• Plan outdoor fun for seniors during the day’s cooler hours. Spend time outdoors with seniors in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are bound to be less intense.
• When traveling with a senior, make sure that he or she is wearing comfortable shoes and loose, layered clothing to accommodate changes in temperature.
• Be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke.  Symptoms include dizziness, headache, disorientation, agitation, fainting, confusion, seizures, increased body temperature, rapid heartbeat, and hallucinations.  If your aging loved one begins to experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help immediately. 

Following these tips for helping seniors take advantage of summer weather will leave plenty of time for your elderly relative to spend outdoors, where he or she can fully enjoy the warm months ahead.