Each season brings new challenges and benefits for older adults. In the spring, you may feel excited to get outdoors and participate in your favorite warm-weather activities such as walking, gardening, and bird watching. It’s essential to keep these spring health concerns in mind as you gear up for sunnier days.
Too Much Sun
After the gloomy days of winter, sitting with the sun on your face feels great. Unfortunately, it’s easy to get too much of a good thing when it comes to the sun.
Excessive sun exposure can be harmful to your eyes and skin, especially if you’re taking certain medications. Sunburn can also increase your risk of skin cancer. Avoid the hottest part of the day when the sun is at its peak, and wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses to minimize the risks.
Dehydration
As you get busy with spring cleaning and clearing your garden, pay attention to the early signs of dehydration. If you notice that your urine is dark yellow, your mouth and lips feel dry, or you feel more tired than usual, these are clear signs that you’re not drinking enough fluids. Recovering from mild dehydration is relatively easy. Move indoors, rest, and drink plenty of water.
Allergies and Asthma
Spring breezes are refreshing, but they can also carry dust and pollen. As an older adult, it can be harder to manage allergy symptoms and asthma attacks as you age. Be careful about using over-the-counter allergy medications, especially if you have a regiment of prescriptions you take every day.
Discuss any spring-related respiratory concerns with your doctor. Also, check the pollen and dust count by checking local reports available online.
Heat Exhaustion
After enduring months of cold weather, you probably want to feel the sun’s heat on your back more than anything. Heat exhaustion is a health risk that you may encounter during the spring.
If you spend too much time in hot weather, especially in direct sunlight, you may begin to feel nauseous, dizzy, and faint. Take these symptoms seriously and get out of the heat as soon as possible to avoid heat stroke.
Tips for Staying Healthy in Spring
While these health issues are important, there are many ways to stay healthy in the spring. Use these tips to take care of yourself as the weather changes:
- Wear sunscreen every day
- Take walks early in the morning or at sunset
- Use a hat and sunglasses while gardening
- Drink more water than you think you need
- Put on a mask when dusting or clearing your yard
- Stay active and eat a balanced diet
Older adults who spend time outdoors are healthier and happier. Use these safety tips to enjoy spring without encountering any health issues.
Transitioning to Assisted Living
As spring arrives, you may notice that living alone is harder than it used to be. Take our assessment today to see if transitioning to assisted living is right for you or a loved one. Making a lifestyle change is never easy, but our holistic approach to care means you or your loved one can embrace the best of your later years with confidence, dignity, and independence.
