Summer is full of warm weather and outdoor activities, and San Antonio offers endless opportunities to spend time outside and have fun with family and friends. However, because of this additional time spent in the sun, summertime can pose certain dangers and health risks to older adults, primarily their eye health and skin health. 

Franklin Park® Senior Living is a luxury senior living provider in San Antonio, Texas, and we want to ensure everyone has a fun and safe summer. We’re sharing some sun safety tips and how to protect yourself this summer!  

Understanding Eye Health 

Eye health is an essential part of healthy aging. It’s normal for vision to change with age, but sometimes these changes can bring about more severe concerns, like cataracts or glaucoma. When these occur, it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, resulting in the inability to drive, read, and potentially even permanent vision loss. 

As with most health concerns, individuals can retain eye health through healthy living and protective habits. Here are some tips on how to take care of your eyes! 

Start with Nutrition

A healthy diet is a key component of eye health. Studies have shown that foods rich in Omega-3s, Vitamin C, and beta carotene can boost eye health, so fill your plate with foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and carrots to get those benefits! 

Quit Smoking 

In addition to other health concerns, smoking can put you at higher risk for cataracts and cause damage to your optic nerve. Quitting can be a difficult journey, but there are several resources available to help. 

Promoting Eye Health in the Summer 

The high temperatures and prolonged exposure to the sun can make your eyes especially vulnerable during summer, but there are some precautions you can take to protect them. 

Wear Sunglasses 

Most people already wear sunglasses for comfort, but they are also crucial in protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. Be sure to get a pair marked as 99-100% protective against UVA and UVB rays. 

Wear Goggles in the Water

Swimming and other water activities can be a great pastime in the hot Texas heat. Whether you choose to swim in the pool or the ocean, though, wearing goggles can protect your eyes from any irritants. Ocean water contains sand and other bacteria, while pools contain chlorine and other chemicals that are harmful to the eyes. 

Understanding Skin Health 

Just like eye health, maintaining skin health is an important element of healthy aging. And also, like eye health, skin health naturally changes with age. Whether it’s dry skin, wrinkles, or bruising, your skin changes with age and requires more attention and protection. Here are some ways you can protect your skin as you age. 

Moisturize  

One of the most common skin issues that older adults face is dry skin. You can relieve dry skin by moisturizing with over-the-counter lotions or prescription ointments daily. 

Promoting Skin Health in The Summer 

Wear Sunscreen 

Wearing protective sunscreen is the most important thing you can do to protect your skin during the summer and throughout the year. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. You should wear this on your face and any skin that will be exposed to the sun. 

Stay Hydrated 

Staying hydrated during the summer can prevent the risk of dehydration and other serious health concerns, but it can also properly hydrate your skin—especially in dry climates. 

Wear Gloves 

Summer is a great time to focus on outdoor hobbies and activities, like gardening or DIY projects around the house. When doing any activity like this, it’s important to wear gloves to protect your hands and skin from any chemicals or other irritants. 

Other Summer Health & Safety Tips 

During summer, older adults have to be careful with more than just their eyes and hands. Here are some other summer safety tips to consider: 

• Spending time outdoors may be fun, but try to plan activities in the morning or evening to avoid sun exposure during the hottest part of the day. 
• Make sure your AC unit is working correctly. 
• When going outside, wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. 
• Stay hydrated by not only drinking water but by eating water-rich foods, like watermelon and cucumbers. 

Healthy Aging and Summer 

Summer is a fun time of year, but it can cause some health concerns for those who aren’t prepared. By following these tips, you can protect your eye health, skin health, and overall health – just during summer, but all year long! 

Franklin Park® Senior Living encourages senior health and wellness and regularly shares tips and resources on healthy aging and senior living. For more information about senior wellness and our luxury senior living communities in San Antonio, Texas, we invite you to visit our blog!